Ultimate Guide to Day Trips from Las Vegas
Top 10 Day Trips from Las Vegas
Must-See Attractions, Stops, and Dining Gems
Las Vegas may be famous for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment, but we have scoured the surrounding desert and nearby destinations in search of incredible opportunities for day trips. If you're looking for breathtaking natural landscapes, charming small towns, or quirky roadside attractions, these destinations will make for an unforgettable Las Vegas campervan expedition.
1. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Distance: 20 miles (~30 minutes)
Why Go: A haven for hikers and climbers, Red Rock Canyon features dramatic red sandstone formations and miles of scenic trails.
Must-See Stops:
Scenic Drive Loop – A 13-mile drive with stunning views and trailheads.
Calico Tanks Trail – A moderate hike leading to a panoramic view of Las Vegas.
Spring Mountain Ranch – A historic ranch with picnic spots and seasonal plays.
Where to Eat: Stop at Cottonwood Station Eatery in nearby Blue Diamond for gourmet pizzas and fresh salads.
2. Hoover Dam and Lake Mead
Distance: 35 miles (~45 minutes)
Why Go: This engineering marvel and the largest reservoir in the U.S. offer both history and outdoor recreation.
Must-See Stops:
Hoover Dam Visitor Center – Learn about the dam’s history and take a guided tour.
Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge – Walk across for an iconic view of the dam.
Boulder Beach – Perfect for a swim or picnic by Lake Mead.
Where to Eat: Head to The Coffee Cup Café in Boulder City for their famous chili verde omelets and old-school diner vibes.
3. Valley of Fire State Park
Distance: 50 miles (~1 hour)
Why Go: Nevada’s oldest state park is a wonderland of fiery red rock formations and ancient petroglyphs.
Must-See Stops:
Elephant Rock – A natural rock formation resembling an elephant.
Fire Wave Trail – A short hike to colorful sandstone swirls.
Atlatl Rock – See petroglyphs left by ancient civilizations.
Where to Eat: Pack a picnic or grab a bite at La Fonda in Overton on your way back.
4. Mount Charleston
Distance: 40 miles (~50 minutes)
Why Go: Escape the desert heat with cooler temperatures and alpine landscapes.
Must-See Stops:
Cathedral Rock Trail – A 2.7-mile hike with stunning vistas.
Mary Jane Falls – A beautiful waterfall hike worth the effort.
Spring Mountains Visitor Gateway – Interactive exhibits and cultural history.
Where to Eat: Enjoy hearty comfort food at The Mount Charleston Lodge, known for its scenic views and hot cocoa.
5. Seven Magic Mountains
Distance: 25 miles (~30 minutes)
Why Go: This vibrant art installation in the Mojave Desert features seven towering stacks of colorful boulders.
Must-See Stops:
Seven Magic Mountains – Snap Instagram-worthy photos of this unique artwork.
Jean Dry Lake Bed – Explore this vast, empty desert expanse nearby.
Sloan Canyon – A hidden gem with ancient petroglyphs and hiking trails.
Where to Eat: Stop in Henderson on your way back and dine at Pizza Rock in Green Valley Ranch, a tasty pizza place with a sports themed dining area.
6. Nelson Ghost Town and Eldorado Canyon
Distance: 45 miles (~1 hour)
Why Go: A historic ghost town filled with vintage charm and abandoned mines.
Must-See Stops:
Eldorado Mine Tours – Explore the historic Techatticup Mine.
Old Barn and Vehicles – Perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Colorado River Access – Kayak or picnic by the river.
Where to Eat: Enjoy rustic dining at Fox Smokehouse BBQ in nearby Boulder City.
7. Death Valley National Park
Distance: 120 miles (~2 hours)
Why Go: Experience the otherworldly landscapes of the hottest place on Earth.
Must-See Stops:
Badwater Basin – The lowest point in North America.
Zabriskie Point – A stunning viewpoint for sunrise or sunset.
Dante’s View – Panoramic views of the valley.
Where to Eat: Grab lunch at The Last Kind Words Saloon in Furnace Creek for a Western-themed dining experience.
8. Sanders Family Winery and Spring Mountain Motorsports
Distance: 60 miles (~1 hour)
Why Go: Combine wine tasting with a thrilling motorsport experience.
Must-See Stops:
Sanders Family Valley Winery – Enjoy award-winning local wines.
Spring Mountain Motorsports Ranch – Try racing or watch an event.
Sanders Family Winery – Another fantastic spot for wine enthusiasts.
Where to Eat: Enjoy comfort food and family dining at the Mom’s Diner in Pahrump.
9. Area 51 and Extraterrestrial Highway
Distance: 150 miles (~2.5 hours)
Why Go: For UFO enthusiasts, this quirky road trip is a must.
Must-See Stops:
Alien Research Center – A gift shop and museum dedicated to extraterrestrials.
Black Mailbox – A famous UFO sighting spot along the highway.
Little A’Le’Inn – A charming alien-themed diner.
Where to Eat: Feast on a "UFO Burger" at the Little A’Le’Inn in Rachel, Nevada.
10. Mesquite Sand Dunes and Mesquite
Distance: 80 miles (~1.5 hours)
Why Go: Explore scenic dunes and relax in a small desert town.
Must-See Stops:
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes – Perfect for sandboarding or photography.
Virgin River Casino – Try your luck at this smaller, laid-back casino.
Whitney Pockets – Fascinating sandstone formations nearby.
Where to Eat: Stop at Gregory’s Mesquite Grill for a fine dining experience.
We think these day trips from Las Vegas offer something for everyone, from art installations and ghost towns to dramatic national parks and quirky roadside attractions. We included delicious dining options and campervan-friendly stops along the way to ensure your day will be as exciting as the destinations themselves. Rent a campervan now and hit the road to create some core memories!
