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Top 23 Exciting Day Trips from Las Vegas in 2025

Michael Boone031 mins

Las Vegas day trips are among the best ways to spend time in Sin City. If you have more than a day in Vegas, tear yourself away from the bright lights, grab some road trip snacks, and hit the road. Downtown Las Vegas might be incredible, but many visitors get distracted by bright lights and partying and overlook the surrounding attractions. To experience the Vegas adventure of a lifetime, prioritize some day trips from Las Vegas.

Fun Day Trips from Las Vegas

This guide covers the best day trips from Las Vegas. If you feel adventurous, Vegas is perfectly positioned to visit sights like Bryce Canyon National Park, Seven Magic Mountains, and even the Grand Canyon. Check out these top day trips and prepare to be inspired.

Top Day Trip Activities and Tours in Las Vegas:

1. Hoover Dam

The Hoover Dam is a spectacular engineering feat that straddles the iconic Colorado River. Standing at around 221 meters in height, the dam is positioned parallel to a massive bridge. Annually, the Hoover Dam and the Dam Bridge attract over 7 million tourists, many seeking adrenaline-filled experiences like skydiving or bungee jumping.

While these activities depend on availability and run at varying times, check to see if any adrenaline events are available during your visit. Touring the dam is a great experience, showcasing the dramatic architecture that inspires many to push their limits.

A Hoover Dam day trip is ideal for those pressed for time. At just a 40-minute drive away, this trip can seamlessly fit into half a day. Although public transport is unavailable, you can easily book a guided tour or shuttle.

We included the Hoover Dam because of its impressive construction and convenience. It offers minimal effort and maximal reward, making it a fabulous day trip from Las Vegas.

2. Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon ranks among the most popular yet ambitious Las Vegas day trips. Located about 4 hours and 20 minutes away, it’s worth the extra effort due to its status as a bucket-list attraction.

To reach it, consider hiring a car (ensuring multiple drivers are insured to share the driving) or booking a guided tour. A guided tour includes round-trip transportation, sparing you from nearly 9 hours at the wheel. Choose the option that best suits your trip.

Upon arrival, you’ll find plenty to explore, from helicopter tours to hiking the Canyon Overlook Trail and exploring both the West Rim and South Rim. The Grand Canyon’s famous Great Unconformity represents a gap in geological history, inspiring millions with stunning views.

3. Dixie National Forest

Dixie National Forest provides a refreshing change of scenery, featuring desert-style beauty through lush landscapes. Spanning over 2 million acres, the area is filled with hiking trails, canyons, and lakes.

This destination suits those eager to hike or bike all day or even rock climb if you can rent the necessary equipment. It’s a breath of fresh air after the glitz of the Las Vegas strip.

Dixie National Forest is a 3-hour drive from Las Vegas, making it a long day trip. Departing early maximizes your journey, allowing for more exploration. Combine it with a scenic drive through Zion National Park for a rich road trip experience.

4. Spring Mountain Ranch State Park

For historical immersion, Spring Mountain Ranch State Park is a former ranch embraced as a state park featuring regular historical reenactments. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural significance, perfect for those who appreciate both.

Located just 30 minutes from Las Vegas within the Red Canyon National Conservation Area, this attraction easily fits into a busy itinerary.

If timed correctly, you might catch a live Broadway musical in the outdoor Super Summer Theatre, surrounded by mountains and green fields. Don’t forget to visit the old Main Ranch House, which now serves as a museum with videos and guided tours.

5. Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is among the most popular Las Vegas day trips, encompassing 3.4 million acres of breathtaking desert and mountains. It boasts almost 1,000 miles of roads for exploration and is only a 2-hour drive from Las Vegas.

Before your visit, it is wise to plan your itinerary to maximize your day trip. Key attractions include Ubehebe Crater, Mesquite Sand Dunes, and Wildrose Charcoal Kiln.

As a top choice for day trips from Las Vegas, Death Valley National Park should be on your itinerary—just decide what you will do while there. Check out more on the best activities in Death Valley for additional inspiration or consider guided tours available.

6. Antelope Canyon

Antelope Canyon is a stunning natural wonder with photogenic sandstone formations, narrow sections transforming into a slot canyon. If you enjoy hiking, this destination is well worth the journey.

Located on Navajo Nation lands, you can arrange a tour with a local guide to learn about its beauty, geography, and cultural significance. There are also photo tours led by professional photographers, making it one of the most memorable day trips from Las Vegas.

Your choices include Upper Antelope Canyon, which is easier to navigate, or Lower Antelope Canyon, which is trickier and less crowded. It’s important to note that Antelope Canyon is quite ambitious, at about a 4.5-hour drive from Las Vegas. If you can, consider breaking it into a longer trip; however, if you’re limited to one day, ensure multiple drivers or book a guided tour that offers round-trip transportation.

7. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is an excellent day trip option from Las Vegas, renowned for its stunning red rocks. The scenic area is filled with awe-inspiring sandstone formations, truly breathtaking at sunrise or sunset.

Known for its scenic drive, a 13-mile stretch of road cuts through some of the most magnificent landscapes. The area also features petroglyphs, seasonal waterfalls, and an array of hiking trails. Plan to visit multiple attractions and end your visit with a sunset drive through the scenic terrain. Surprisingly short, Red Rock Canyon is only a 30-minute drive from Las Vegas, making it an effortless addition to your itinerary.

8. Kaibab National Forest

Kaibab National Forest boasts over 1.6 million acres of breathtaking vistas. Bring binoculars to spot local wildlife, such as grazing bison, in this Colorado Plateau hotspot rich in flora and fauna.

With over 300 miles of hiking trails, you can fully embrace this national forest. You may also explore boating or fishing opportunities. Kaibab National Forest makes for one of the most wholesome day trips from Las Vegas.

This trip necessitates a longer commitment, as it requires a 3-hour drive from Las Vegas. Consider allowing additional time to detour to Flagstaff for skiing or visiting the nearby Grand Canyon. To optimize your experience, consider extending your visit with an overnight stay combined with exploring famous nearby attractions.

9. Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a beautiful day trip offering a lush alternative to Red Rock Canyon. With striking red sandstone formations and the Virgin River winding through, it’s an idyllic blend of desert and green scenery.

Covering less than 150,000 acres, Zion National Park is very accessible from Las Vegas, featuring excellent hiking trails that provide diverse landscapes. Popular hikes include the Emerald Pools and the famous Angels Landing, one of the best hikes in Zion.

It’s a 2.5-hour drive to Zion from Las Vegas, located just over the Utah border near St. George. If you hire a car, set off early to make the most of your time in the park, and consider stopping in St. George for attractions like Bloomington Petroglyph Park and Red Cliffs National Conservation Area.

10. Valley of Fire State Park

Valley of Fire State Park is another remarkable red rock destination suitable for day trips from Las Vegas. Renowned for its stunning sandstone formations, the park truly captivates during sunrise and sunset.

With unique hiking trails, including challenges like the Silica Dome and the Petrified Logs Loop, Valley of Fire offers a wealth of activities across its 46,000 acres. Within just an hour’s drive from Las Vegas, it provides a fantastic day trip option.

Consider combining your visit with Lake Mead, as one driving route takes you past the lake’s north shore, allowing for hiking followed by a refreshing dip in the water.

11. Seven Magic Mountains

Seven Magic Mountains is one of the most intriguing day trips from Las Vegas. This attraction features a line of brightly colored rocks stacked against a stunning backdrop of mountains – a unique art installation attracting millions of visitors.

Though a 15-minute visit can satisfy your curiosity, the installation may become crowded if you don’t plan your time well. The main draw is that Seven Magic Mountains is free to visit, creatively appealing, and only a 20-minute drive from Las Vegas, making it an easy addition to your itinerary.

12. Cathedral Gorge State Park

For outdoor activities, Cathedral Gorge State Park is a perfect addition to your day trips from Las Vegas. Famous for its colorful canyons formed from ancient lakebeds, the park showcases bizarre spires and fascinating rock formations, ideal for hiking and photography.

Located approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes from Las Vegas, the park offers access to awe-inspiring geological sights. Along the way, you can discover the Desert National Wildlife Range and other intriguing attractions, making this trip worthwhile.

13. Lake Mead

Lake Mead is a massive reservoir created by the Hoover Dam and the Colorado River. Not only does it supply water to over 25 million people, but it also offers excellent recreational opportunities such as swimming, boating, and fishing.

The best swimming spots, such as Willow Beach and Boulder Swim Beach, are perfect for cooling off during summer months. Just a 40-minute drive from Las Vegas, Lake Mead is a fantastic choice for a day trip, offering stunning scenery and relaxing water activities.

14. Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park fascinates visitors with its rock spires, overlooks, and natural amphitheater. This 35,000-acre park is a worthy day trip destination from Las Vegas, showcasing striking photogenic rock formations.

Boasting various trails such as Natural Bridge, Bryce Point, and Fairyland Point, Bryce Canyon National Park provides ample opportunities to explore. Although it’s a 4-hour drive into Utah, it rivals larger national parks, making it an exceptional example of scenic beauty.

15. Extraterrestrial Highway

Experiencing Extraterrestrial Highway is one of the most exciting day trips from Las Vegas for those intrigued by the unknown. This 98-mile stretch covers some of the most notable alien-themed attractions in the US, starting from Las Vegas along Nevada 375.

During your drive, you can find various manmade and natural attractions related to extraterrestrial lore. Expect unique stops such as the Alien Research Center, the sailing stones at Death Valley Inn, and opportunities for UFO gazing at Lower Pahranagat Lake.

Allow approximately 3 hours for the full drive, but feel free to customize your trip based on your interests. For those preferring not to drive, check for guided tours that provide round-trip transportation to the most sought-after attractions.

16. Snow Canyon State Park

Though small at just 7,400 acres, Snow Canyon State Park packs a punch. Here, you can horseback ride through sandstone canyons, hike past volcanic tubes, and explore the extinct Santa Clara volcano.

Home to around 16 miles of trails, it’s an easily navigable day trip. The park’s unique geological features, including lava tubes, enhance its appeal, making it perfect for an adventurous day out.

Located a 2-hour drive from Las Vegas, Snow Canyon State Park can be combined with other attractions in southwestern Utah, such as Red Cliffs National Conservation Area and Zion National Park.

17. Emerald Cave Kayaking

Emerald Cave is a breathtaking feature known for its green hue, resulting from sunlight and algae illuminating the depths. Just an hour’s drive from Las Vegas, this scenic destination on the Colorado River is perfect for escaping the city.

You can enjoy a peaceful kayaking experience from Willow Beach to Emerald Cave, which typically takes about 1.5 hours. Consider booking a guided tour or renting a kayak individually to experience this natural beauty.

18. Climb Mount Charleston Peak

Mount Charleston represents one of the most challenging day trips from Las Vegas. The Charleston Peak South Trail can take nearly 11 hours to complete, featuring a significant elevation gain.

Located only a 45-minute drive from Las Vegas, this scenic area makes for an exciting adventure for fitness enthusiasts and experienced hikers looking for a challenge.

19. Mojave National Preserve

Mojave National Preserve is a great day trip from Las Vegas, covering approximately 1.5 million acres. This region features vast Joshua tree populations and diverse landscapes ranging from lava tubes to sand dunes.

The preserve is ideal for exploring either on horseback, by 4WD, or via hiking trails. It’s a fantastic opportunity for outdoor adventures.

Mojave National Preserve is about 2.5 hours from Las Vegas by car, especially if you take the scenic route. Enjoy a fun road trip experience complete with diverse scenery and plenty of attractions along the way.

20. Go Whitewater Rafting on the Colorado River

Whitewater rafting offers one of the best day trips from Las Vegas for thrill-seekers. To maximize your adventure, consider a day trip to the Grand Canyon, where the Colorado River’s rapids offer an ideal setting for rafting.

With rapids ranging from class 1 to 10, there are options for both novice and experienced rafters. Most tours explore up to Phantom Ranch nestled in the heart of the canyon.

Expect a full day of excitement if you choose to go whitewater rafting in the Grand Canyon, as it requires a 4.5-hour drive from Las Vegas. The adrenaline rush is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

21. Lake Havasu City

While Lake Havasu City isn’t particularly tiny, it offers a tranquil alternative to the Vegas scene. Just a 2-hour and 20-minute drive away, it features stunning lakeside beaches and beautiful state parks.

A significant draw is the iconic London Bridge, transported from England in the 1970s, which can be explored independently or through guided walking tours.

Lake Havasu City’s combination of beaches and the novelty of London Bridge makes it an excellent alternative to more mainstream destinations. Additionally, stop at Boulder City or Willow Beach on your journey.

22. Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park, approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes from Las Vegas, is worth the drive. With its iconic Joshua trees scattered throughout the 800,000 acres, the park offers exceptional scenic beauty.

If you enjoy hiking, don’t miss trails like Hidden Valley Nature Trail or the Arch Rock Nature Trail. Even a drive through the park is visually stunning, ensuring a memorable experience.

Although it’s a bit of a trek from Las Vegas, Joshua Tree National Park is an excellent choice for nature enthusiasts. Consider an overnight stay in Palm Springs or camping to enhance your experience.

23. Nelson Ghost Town

If you’re after something unique, consider Nelson Ghost Town, an atmospheric relic of a gold mine abandoned in the 1930s. The site feels like a time capsule, with restored buildings and retro signs.

Many liken it to a Disney experience due to its upkeep, but it stands as an impressive historical attraction for those seeking cultural insights. Nelson Ghost Town is a 45-minute drive from Vegas, making it easy to incorporate into your itinerary.

The site carves out a special place in history, augmented by the nearby Eldorado Canyon tour opportunities, along with several hiking trails.

Day Trips from Las Vegas: FAQs

Is Zion a day trip from Las Vegas?

Yes, Zion is within driving distance of Las Vegas, making it a feasible day trip. Expect roughly 2 hours to reach Zion National Park, so start your day early for maximum sightseeing time.

What is within 2 hours of Las Vegas?

There are plenty of activities within 2 hours of Las Vegas, including Zion National Park, Lake Mead, Mojave National Preserve, Death Valley National Park, and nearby cities like Boulder City.

Is Joshua Tree near Las Vegas?

Joshua Tree is about 3 hours away, making it an easy day trip for anyone with a bucket list desire to visit.

How many days in Vegas is enough?

Three days is sufficient to fit in a day trip and enjoy the Vegas Strip; however, a minimum of 5 days is ideal for experiencing the full spectrum of the city’s attractions and day trips.

To Conclude

Day trips from Las Vegas are worthwhile, offering a chance to explore beyond the Strip. Sin City is ideally located to discover natural wonders like the Virgin River, Magic Mountains, and various national parks. Rent a car to independently arrange your day trips, or book a guided tour that facilitates transportation from Las Vegas. Numerous options exist, such as a Grand Canyon West tour that includes transfers, allowing you to relax and avoid driving.

Need more Vegas inspiration? Check out our guide on where to stay in Las Vegas. Finding suitable accommodation serves as a vital base for getting the most out of your Vegas adventure—explore neighborhoods and the best hotels before your trip.

Plan Your Next Trip to Las Vegas With These Resources

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to plan your next trip? Utilize these tried and tested resources that come recommended.

Book Your Flights: Begin planning by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have relied on their services for years.

Book your Hotel: Compare prices on hotels with Booking.com for Europe and TripAdvisor for other locations.

Find Apartment Rentals: For affordable apartment rentals, check VRBO.

Travel Insurance: Don’t leave home without it. We suggest:

  • Safety Wing – Occasional Travelers.
  • Medjet – Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: For walking tours, private guides, and skip-the-line tickets, we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more planning help? Visit our Resources Page where we highlight trusted companies for travel.

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