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Las Vegas is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. Every year, over 40 million people visit Sin City! If you are planning a trip to Las Vegas, I highly recommend including a road trip in your itinerary!
Here is our guide to the top 10 Las Vegas road trip destinations!
Table of Contents
Why Las Vegas is a Great Place for Road Trips
Las Vegas is located in the middle of the desert in southern Nevada. It is pretty far removed from other major cities. However, it is just a few hours’ drive from the borders of California, Utah, and Arizona, as well as several prominent National Parks and other natural wonders.
After spending a night or two in Las Vegas, you should be ready to visit some of the most impressive natural attractions in the United States!
Read on to see the top Las Vegas road trip destinations!
Top Las Vegas Road Trip Destinations
1. Horseshoe Bend
Horseshoe Bend is a section of the Colorado River that has cut a large canyon into the shape of a horseshoe. It is one of the coolest things that I have seen in the United States!
Horseshoe Bend is located near Page, Arizona. You can park nearby and hike about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) to the lookout and appreciate the impressive view.
This photograph doesn’t do justice in showing the sheer size of this natural marvel. You need to visit it for yourself!
Las Vegas to Horseshoe Bend
The drive from Las Vegas to Horseshoe Bend covers approximately 280 miles (450 kilometers) and typically takes around 4.5 to 5 hours. This scenic journey takes you through the incredible landscapes of northern Arizona, primarily on Interstate 15, US Route 89, and State Route 98.
You can also take a tour from Las Vegas to Horseshoe Bend, the Grand Canyon, and Antelope Canyon.
2. Grand Canyon National Park
The Grand Canyon is another world famous site that is accessible via a road trip from Las Vegas.
Grand Canyon National Park is vast, and there are several considerations regarding what part of the park you should visit. However, I generally recommend visiting the South Rim.
If you are visiting in the winter, bundle up! I visited in November and it was freezing!
Las Vegas to Grand Canyon National Park
The drive from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon covers approximately 270-280 miles (435-450 kilometers), depending on your destination within the canyon, and typically takes around 4 to 5 hours. This scenic journey takes you through Arizona, primarily on Interstate 40 and State Route 64.
You can also take a tour from Las Vegas to Horseshoe Bend, the Grand Canyon, and Antelope Canyon.
3. Monument Valley
Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is located near the Arizona-Utah border within the Navajo Nation.
The most prominent image of Monument Valley consists of three large sandstone buttes that tower between 400-1,000 ft. These are the East and West Mitten Buttes (shaped like mittens facing each other) and Merrick Butte.
Check out these tours of Monument Valley with Navajo guides.
Las Vegas to Monument Valley
The drive from Las Vegas to Monument Valley covers approximately 400 miles (645 kilometers) and typically takes around 6 to 7 hours. This scenic journey takes you through the desert landscapes of Arizona and Utah, primarily on US Route 160 and US Route 163.
4. Antelope Canyon
Antelope Canyon, also near Page, Arizona, is a world-famous slot canyon known for its narrow, winding corridors and stunning light beams that filter through the sandstone walls. It is located only a few minutes’ drive from Horseshoe Bend.
Antelope Canyon is divided into Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon. It attracts photographers and tourists from around the globe.
In an attempt to preserve the fragile ecosystem, tickets to Antelope Canyon are limited. You must book a tour to Antelope Canyon in order to enter.
Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon
The drive from Las Vegas to Antelope Canyon covers approximately 280 miles (450 kilometers) and typically takes around 4.5 to 5 hours. This scenic journey takes you through the desert landscapes of northern Arizona, primarily on Interstate 15, US Route 89, and State Route 98.
You can also take a tour from Las Vegas to Horseshoe Bend, the Grand Canyon, and Antelope Canyon.
5. Window Rock, Navajo Nation
Window Rock is the capital of the Navajo Nation. It is named after a large sandstone monument with a characteristic arch in the center, resembling a window.
The best place to observe this impressive monument is from the Window Rock Navajo Tribal Park and Veterans Memorial. Not only can you enjoy the amazing scenery, but also pay tribute to the Navajo servicemen and women who have sacrificed for their country.
If you decide to visit the Navajo Nation, make sure to get some fry bread while you are there. You can find this in certain restaurants, but I usually get it from street vendors.
Las Vegas to Window Rock, Navajo Nation
The drive from Las Vegas to Window Rock covers approximately 460 miles (740 kilometers) and typically takes around 7 to 8 hours. This scenic journey takes you through the beautiful landscapes of the Arizona and Utah, primarily on Interstate 40 and US Route 191.
6. Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park, located in southern Utah, is known for its unique geological formations called hoodoos. These spire-shaped rock formations create a surreal landscape, which are best viewed from along the park’s scenic drive.
I highly recommend visiting this park around sunset. The views are remarkable! Plus, when it gets dark, you will be able to see thousands of stars, and even the Milky Way!
Check out these tours of Bryce Canyon National Park, which include guided tours and horseback tours!
Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon National Park
The drive from Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon National Park covers approximately 260 miles (420 kilometers) and typically takes around 4 to 5 hours. This scenic journey takes you through the rugged landscapes of southern Utah, primarily on Interstate 15 and Highway 89.
You can also take a tour from Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park.
7. Zion National Park
Zion National Park is another popular park within driving distance of Las Vegas. The waters of the Virgin River gives life in this desert landscape. It has been considered a sanctuary from the surrounding desert for people for thousands of years.
When visiting Zion National Park, make sure to bring plenty of water. Cell phones don’t work in most areas. Also, check the weather before you go. Distant storms can cause flash floods!
There are several tours of Zion National Park that take you to the top sites, such as Angels Landing, Zion Canyon, and Weeping Rock.
Las Vegas to Zion National Park
The drive from Las Vegas to Zion National Park covers approximately 160 miles (260 kilometers) and typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. This scenic journey takes you through the stunning red rock landscapes of southern Utah, primarily on Interstate 15 and State Route 9.
You can also take a tour from Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park.
8. Death Valley National Park
Death Valley, located in eastern California, is the hottest and driest national park in the United States. It is famous for its extreme temperatures, vast salt flats, and rugged terrain. It also contains the lowest point in North America.
Death Valley National Park is extremely dangerous to visit in the summer. I have heard of car tires melting on the hot asphalt! Make sure to bring plenty of food and water when you visit.
Check out these tours of Death Valley, which include stargazing and visiting popular sites such as Artists Drive.
Las Vegas to Death Valley National Park
The drive from Las Vegas to Death Valley covers approximately 120-140 miles (190-225 kilometers), depending on your route, and typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours. This scenic journey takes you through the Mojave Desert on Nevada State Route 160 and California State Route 190.
9. Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks
Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks are located adjacent to each other in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains. They are home to some of the world’s largest trees, including the famous General Sherman Tree.
The parks offer diverse landscapes, ranging from towering giant sequoias to deep canyons and high mountain peaks. There are plenty of hiking trails in Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks.
Las Vegas to Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks
The drive from Las Vegas to Kings Canyon & Sequoia National Parks covers approximately 350-400 miles (560-645 kilometers), depending on your route, and typically takes around 6 to 7 hours. This scenic journey takes you through the diverse landscapes of southern California, primarily on Interstate 15 and State Route 198.
10. Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park, located in southern California, is a unique desert landscape where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet. The park is named after the distinctive Joshua Trees, which dot its rugged terrain.
When visiting this park, you can explore striking rock formations, rare flora and fauna, and beautiful desert landscapes. Popular activities include hiking, rock climbing, stargazing, and photography, with popular sites like Hidden Valley, Skull Rock, and Keys View offering spectacular views and unique experiences.
Las Vegas to Joshua Tree National Park
The drive from Las Vegas to Joshua Tree National Park covers approximately 180-220 miles (290-355 kilometers), depending on your route, and typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. This scenic journey takes you through the Mojave Desert on Interstate 15 and Highway 62.
Other Destinations
There are some other interesting destinations around Las Vegas that would be worth visiting if it was integrated into a larger itinerary.
Slab City, located in southeastern California, is an off-grid community in the middle of the Sonoran Desert. If you decide to visit this small community, I would recommend combining it with a trip to the Salton Sea or Anza Borrego State Park.
St. George, Utah is an interesting place to visit as well. I recommend checking out the St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site to see real dinosaur tracks and fossils. It is a convenient stop on the way to Zion National Park.
Where to Stay in Las Vegas
While I am a huge proponent of leaving Las Vegas to visit nearby National Parks, I also recommend staying in Las Vegas for at least one night. And if you are staying in Las Vegas, you should stay near the famous Las Vegas Strip.
A popular hotel near the Las Vegas Strip is the Platinum Hotel. This is a great option for luxury without breaking the bank.
If you are staying in Las Vegas on a budget, I recommend staying at the Tuscany Suites and Casino Hotel. You will be able to stay here at a fraction of the cost of other hotels in the area. It is also highly-rated by visitors!
Check out the map below to see available accommodations.
