Below, we break down some of the best things to do around Las Vegas, from quick stops only a few miles outside of the city to longer road trips, all with insights from Fora travel advisors. The first set of destinations make great pitstops on your way to or from Las Vegas. The Hoover Dam is one of the most recognizable landmarks near Las Vegas. The dam is made of millions of tons of concrete set amid a desert oasis, where hiking, swimming, boating and other outdoorsy activities โ all within the greater Lake Mead recreational area โ are only about 30 minutes away from the Vegas Strip.
Red Rock Canyon is a national conservation area about half an hour southwest of Las Vegas. Or, kayak through Emerald Cove to the south of the canyon for respite from the heat. Many of the rock features have ancient โ between 2, and 4, years โ Native American petroglyphs, the meanings of which are largely debated by anthropologists. Make sure you arrive early or enter from the Northeastern entrance; lines can become quite long by mid-morning. When the Techatticup mine ran dry in the mids, Nelson was abandoned for the better part of a century.
Now, Nelson Ghost Town contrasts with the glitz and glamour of Vegas. Checking it out is one of the best things to do in Vegas besides gambling. Much of the original town has been preserved, along with historical additions made over the last years.
In the warmer months, you can hike, bike or go horseback riding through miles of rigorous terrain. The Instagram-worthy installation is about 30 minutes south of the Vegas Strip.
The sudden inclusion of vibrant colors is a compelling contrast with the muted tans, browns and greens of the Mojave Desert. These destinations are better suited for all-day trips or as pairings for a more elaborate vacation. In some cases, you can easily return to Vegas after spending a day away. The party never stops in Vegas, but the casinos in Laughlin โ about 1.
