Las Vegas is a city of fun, beauty and adventure. Residents love everything Vegas has to offer and the city sees visitors all year long looking to take in the casinos, events and amazing views of nature. From the Grand Canyon to the Death Valley National Park, here are the best day trips in Las Vegas for those that want to enjoy the scenic views in the area.
Grand Canyon
One of the best day trips in Vegas can be had with Grand Canyon helicopter tours. It’s a five-hour drive from Vegas to reach the North and South Rims, but helicopter tours will cut this down to only two hours. Plus, many helicopter tours allow you to picnic in the canyon. If you go to the West Rim, you can hop on a shuttle to see the 4,000 foot high Skywalk.
Death Valley National Park
Death Valley National Park is a 3.4 million-acre park, complete with panoramic views, sand dunes and multi-colored cliffs. Visitors to the area enjoy the history it provides, Scotty’s Castle, remnants of borax mines and charcoal kilns. The day trip will be rough due to the extreme heat and size of the area, so be sure to only take a car that’s in good working condition and bring plenty of water. The area is a few hours from Vegas, so bring a good map or take a guided tour through the park.
Area 51
Area 51 is a day trip near Las Vegas for UFO enthusiasts. The area offers alien-like Indian petroglyphs, the Extraterrestrial Highway, intimidating guards and an unexplained dry lake bed where UFO sightings can occur. The Area 51 tour goes close to a top secret military facility, providing a one-of-a-kind experience that has to be seen to be believed.
Hoover Dam
One of the most popular choices for day trip in Las Vegas is to the Hoover Dam. Some people take a bus ride to the Dam for a calmer cruise, while others enjoy the breathtaking views that only a helicopter can provide. You can check out the legendary power plant and take a tour into the passageways of the Dam.
Zion National Park
Zion National Park is packed with huge cliffs and beautiful rock formations. It was named by early Mormon pioneers using Biblical names and most people view the floor of the canyon that surrounds the Virgin River. Taking a tour allows you to enjoy the views, without having to focus on driving. Also, be sure to get out and hike one of the many available trails.
Vegas is known for its glitz and glam, but you won’t want to miss out on the incredible day trips full of nature and panoramic views. Don’t worry, the buffet will be there when you get back.