Craving a break from the dazzling lights and bustling casinos of Las Vegas? Consider any of the incredible day trips Las Vegas has to offer. Within a few hours’ drive, some of the most incredible natural wonders await — from the stunning Grand Canyon to the Hoover Dam to the blazingly hot Death Valley.
There are many hidden gems within a half-day’s drive from the Strip, so choose your adventure and get outside the concrete jungle. Below, we’ve rounded up our favorite Las Vegas day trips.
1. The Grand Canyon
Distance from Las Vegas: 270 miles
One of the most popular day trips from Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon is a must-see for anyone in the Southwest. Carved over 6 million years ago, these layered bands of red rock truly look like the landscape of Mars. Mile-high canyon walls expose some of the oldest exposed rock and take up 217 miles.
Once you arrive, there are countless ways to experience the rim of the Grand Canyon. Adventure through the Grand Canyon Skywalk, a glass-bottomed bridge that stretches out over the edge of the 4,000-foot drop to the bottom of the canyon. Bask in the panoramic views of the West Rim and Colorado River, take a luxury helicopter tour or ride mules above heart-pounding drops.
Extend your day trip if you hike trails like the Bright Angel trail or North Canyon Rim, or simply bring a blanket to enjoy the stunning sunset.
2. Zion National Park
Distance from Las Vegas: 150 miles
Two hours northeast of Las Vegas is another world-famous national park, Zion National Park. Across 232 square miles, Zion is home to spectacular scenery, challenging hikes and canyoneering. Zion is not for the faint of heart and is packed with adventurous things to do, especially if you’re looking to mark it off your checklist of national parks in the U.S.
Popular trails include the Narrows, a slot canyon that requires wading through the Virgin River, and Angels Landing, a steep hike with breathtaking views of the canyon. Rent ATVs for an adrenaline-pumping view of the sandy dunes and desert landscape. If that’s not enough, book a skydiving excursion and plummet to the ground at 120 miles an hour.
For a more leisurely experience, take a scenic drive along the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway or visit the Zion Canyon Visitor Center.
3. Hoover Dam
Distance from Las Vegas: 45 miles
Need a quick trip that will only take up the morning or afternoon? The Hoover Dam is a short 45-minute drive from the Las Vegas Strip and well worth the adventure. It powers 4 billion kilowatt-hours of hydroelectric power for 1.3 million people across Nevada, Arizona and California and is a miraculous feat of engineering, nature and machinery.
Kayak the Hoover Dam, or take a guided power plant tour. Walk across the Memorial Bridge, or head to one of the many lookout centers for wild views of the dam’s power, cascading water and deafening sounds.
4. Lake Mead
Distance from Las Vegas: 30 miles
Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States, offers a variety of water activities, from boating and fishing to swimming and water skiing. Located just a short drive from Las Vegas, this massive lake provides a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, and is a great option for visiting Vegas on a budget.
Visitors can rent boats, jet skis or houseboats or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. For a more adventurous experience, explore the underwater ruins of submerged towns or go hiking in the surrounding desert.
5. Death Valley National Park
Distance from Las Vegas: 135 miles
Appropriately named, Death Valley National Park in Southern California is one of the hottest and driest national parks in the United States. Sitting below sea level, Death Valley can experience soaring temperatures into 120°F in the summer, only cooling off to about 90°F at night. Despite its harsh conditions, this park offers stunning landscapes, including towering sand dunes, colorful badlands and salt-crusted flats.
If you’re craving a hike, you have options: Grotto Canyon is a difficult 2.2-mile out-and-back trail. The Badlands Loop is a moderate 2.7-mile loop, or you can take it easy on the 0.5-mile Salt Creek Interpretive Trail, which runs along a flat boardwalk. There are also ample opportunities for stargazing, camping and rock climbing. If you add this to your list of Vegas day trips, come well-prepared with water, food and shade and avoid peak summer.
6. Valley of Fire State Park
Distance from Las Vegas: 50 miles
A vibrant palette of red rock formations, the Valley of Fire State Park is a photographer’s dream. Just a short drive from Las Vegas, this park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing and off-roading.
Popular attractions include the Fire Wave, a stunning sandstone formation with swirling patterns of red and orange, and the Atlatl Rock, a petroglyph site with ancient rock art.
7. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Distance from Las Vegas: 17 miles
Just a short drive from the Strip, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a hidden gem in Vegas, offering stunning red rock formations, scenic drives and challenging hikes. The 13-mile drive winds through the canyon, with breathtaking views of the colorful cliffs and desert landscape.
Popular hiking trails include the Calico Hills Trail, which leads to a stunning rock formation, and the Ice Box Canyon Trail, which offers a cool escape from the desert heat.
8. Bryce Canyon National Park
Distance from Las Vegas: 270 miles
A stunning landscape of towering hoodoos (uniquely shaped rock pillars carved by erosion), Bryce Canyon National Park is a must-see day trip from Las Vegas for any nature lover. About a four-hour drive from Las Vegas, this park offers stunning views of the colorful rock formations and the vast expanse of the canyon.
Popular trails include the Navajo Loop Trail, which offers panoramic views of the canyon, and the Rim Trail, which winds along the edge of the canyon. For a unique perspective, consider taking a horseback ride or a guided ranger tour. Whatever you choose, this national park is a great addition to any Southwest road trip.
9. Sedona, Arizona
Distance from Las Vegas: 30 miles
One of the best day trips from Las Vegas for artists and spiritual seekers, Sedona is known for its stunning red rock formations, vortexes and vibrant energy. Located roughly four hours from Las Vegas by car, this charming town offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking and Jeep tours. Be sure to add this destination to your summer travel plans if you want a unique experience.
Popular attractions include the Chapel of the Holy Cross, a stunning church built into a red rock cliff, and the Cathedral Rock Trail, a challenging hike with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
10. Seven Magic Mountains
Distance from Las Vegas: 10 miles
A vibrant outdoor art installation, the Seven Magic Mountains is a must-see for any visitor to Las Vegas. Located just a short drive from the Strip, this colorful sculpture consists of seven towering, colorful rock formations.
This stunning piece of public art offers a unique and Instagram-worthy photo opportunity, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
11. Joshua Tree National Park
Distance from Las Vegas: 200 miles
One of the most popular trips from Las Vegas, Joshua Tree National Park is home to iconic Joshua trees, dramatic rock formations and diverse wildlife. This three-hour escape from Las Vegas offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing and stargazing.
Popular attractions include the Hidden Valley Trail, which winds through a stunning rock formation, and the Cholla Cactus Garden, a surreal landscape of spiny cacti. These are just a few of the many things to do in Joshua Tree, so plan accordingly.
Book Your Trip to Vegas with AAA
Whether you’re seeking the grandeur of the Grand Canyon, the serenity of Lake Mead or the otherworldly beauty of Death Valley, you’ll find it all within a short drive from Las Vegas. Ready to embark on your next adventure? Become an AAA member and unlock exclusive travel benefits, including discounts on hotels, car rentals and attractions.
