Las Vegas, Nevada is in a great location because is it central to many places. There are many things you can do besides gamble and party. Within just a 4-hour drive to many places. Whether you are in Vegas for a weekend or a week you can rent a car and take a day trip to any of these destinations below.
Horseshoe Bend / Antelope Canyon
One of the farther drives but still under a 5-hour drive from Las Vegas is Horseshoe Bend located in Page, Arizona it has spectacular views of the Colorado River as it winds its way through a massive canyon. You can hike to the edge of the canyon to get a closer look at the river below.
Antelope Canyon is a short 10-minute drive from Horseshoe Bend it is one of the most popular slot canyons in America. The canyon is made up of layers of red sandstone that have been eroded over time by wind and water. It has two levels, the upper level and the lower level. A lot of photographers go to Antelope Canyon, where photograph the light and shadow on the red rocks. The canyon is also a popular spot for stargazing, as it offers clear views of the night sky.
Joshua Tree
Just 3 hours and a half hours away from Vegas is Joshua Tree National Park in southeastern California. The park covers more than 790,000 acres and includes two distinct desert ecosystems. Joshua Tree National Park is home to a variety of plants and animals, including the Joshua tree for which the park is named. The park also includes several hiking trails, campsites, and opportunities for rock climbing and stargazing.
Zion National Park
3 hours away from Vegas is Zion National Park one of the most popular national parks in the United States. Located in southwestern Utah, the park is known for its striking red cliffs and canyons. There are many trails in Zion where you can spend all day hiking, the most popular trail is Angels Landing. You can also take a scenic drive along the Zion Mt. Carmel Highway as well.
Death Valley National Park
In under three hours of driving you can see Death Valley National Park. Located in California, the park gets its name from being the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level and the hottest temperature ever recorded on Earth, a scorching 134 degrees Fahrenheit. Despite its harsh conditions, Death Valley is full of life. The park is home to over 1,000 species of plants, as well as animals like bighorn sheep and coyotes. Death Valley also has history, having served as a refuge for miners during the California Gold Rush. The park is a popular destination for hikers and photographers, who want to experience its otherworldly landscapes.
Red Rock Canyon
Just outside of Vegas under 30 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip is Red Rock Canyon. There are many hiking trails and camping options. It is great for rock climbing, horseback riding, and photography as well. There is also wildlife in Red Rock Canyon including bighorn sheep, coyotes, and desert turtles. There is a scenic drive that goes through the Canyon and is worth the short drive to get a break from the city.
