Las Vegas is a vibrant and exciting city, but the surrounding area also offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to explore. From natural wonders to historical sites, there’s something for everyone.
One of the most popular day trips from Las Vegas is to the Hoover Dam, which is located just 30 minutes drive from the city. The Hoover Dam is a marvel of modern engineering and a National Historic Landmark. Visitors can take tours of the dam and learn about its history and construction, as well as enjoy breathtaking views of the Colorado River and Lake Mead.
Another must-see natural wonder near Las Vegas is the Grand Canyon, which is located approximately 277 miles (446 km) from the city. The Grand Canyon is one of the seven natural wonders of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can take a scenic drive along the Desert View Drive, hike along one of the many trails or take a helicopter or small airplane tour over the canyon for a bird’s-eye view.
For those interested in history and culture, the Valley of Fire State Park is located about an hour drive from Las Vegas. The park is home to some of the most stunning red rock formations and ancient petroglyphs. Visitors can hike along the many trails, picnic or camp and also enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Another interesting historical site is the Lake Mead National Recreation Area which is located about 30 minutes drive from Las Vegas, it is home to the largest man-made lake in the United States, and offers a wide range of recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming, as well as several scenic drives through the Mojave Desert.
For a more relaxed day, visitors can take a drive along the Extraterrestrial Highway, also known as Route 375, which is a stretch of road located about an hour and a half drive from Las Vegas. The road is known for reports of “UFO” sightings and a popular destination for those who are into UFOs and extraterrestrial phenomena.