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The Best Outdoor Adventures in Las Vegas — From Hiking Trails to Relaxing Hot Springs

Get some fresh air between casino nights at these outdoor destinations in Las Vegas.

On my most recent trip to Las Vegas , I decided to trade in my heels and dresses for a pair of sneakers and some spandex. I purchased my flight tickets in anticipation of casino nights, exclusive clubs, and dinner with my girlfriends. But this time, I also wanted to see a side of the city that lies outside the dazzling lights of the Strip.

Although the shining lights and sparkling venues draw singers, dancers, and all manner of performing artists, the dramatic desert landscape makes Sin City an international attraction among outdoorsy travelers, too. Well-known rock climber Alex Honnold made Las Vegas his home in 2018 and praised the city's outdoor merits in an Instagram post . So, if it's good enough for the world's most famous rock climber, Las Vegas definitely holds enough outdoor adventure for the weekend explorer like myself.

Here are some of the best outdoor adventures to have in Las Vegas.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

This national conservation area lies a 20-minute drive from the Strip and is famous for its terra-cotta-red sandstone cliffs. On any given day, hundreds of rock climbers take advantage of the vertical landscape on both lead climbs and ropeless boulders. Joel Enrico, who guides trips in the park for The Mountain Guides , said routes are accessible for climbers of all skill levels. "In the last 10 years, it's become an international destination due to accessibility," he told Travel + Leisure . Want to keep your feet closer to the ground? There are also plenty of opportunities for biking on trails or on the 13-mile scenic loop that runs through the park. Bikes can be rented nearby at the Las Vegas Cyclery , and guided e-bike tours are offered inside the park for travelers seeking a more laid-back experience.

Clark County Wetlands Park

Less than 10 miles west of the Strip, on the outer edges of the city, a marshy wetland breaks up southern Nevada's desert landscape. In Clark County Wetlands Park , visitors can see the city and nature collide at the Las Vegas Wash, an urban river formed by both the preexisting oasis that created the valley and urban runoff from the city's golf courses and stormwater. The highlight of this park is a 14-mile multiuse trail known as the Wetlands Loop, which welcomes hikers, joggers, cyclists and dog walkers. Though the river that runs alongside it may be from the city, the Wash serves as a natural water filter before it ultimately runs into Lake Mead, 12 miles downstream. If your feet hurt from the previous evening's festivities, you can take a less active approach at the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve , which is located in the park at the edge of the Pacific Migratory Flyway. Here, you can see more than 270 species of local and migratory birds.

Gold Strike Canyon Hot Springs

If the hotel hot tub just isn't cutting it, travelers can take the difficult six-mile hike to crystal clear natural hot springs that lie on the banks of the Colorado River below Lake Mead. Parking is available at the trailhead in Boulder City, an approximately 30-minute drive from the Strip. The hike is not for the faint of heart — several built-in ropes are available for use on steep portions — but the payoff is a series of beautiful pools, the temperatures of which range between 85 and 105 degrees. Summer explorers are out of luck on this adventure; the hot springs are closed from May through September due to extreme desert temperatures.

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When people think about Las Vegas, most immediately envision the vivid lights of the Strip, the iconic Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign, and the mega resorts.

But there is so much more to do in the destination, especially in the great outdoors. From hiking in scenic canyons and wading down rivers to zooming through the desert by jeep or zipline, your next exhilarating adventure awaits.

Go Off Road

Grab your hiking boots and head to Red Rock Canyon and explore more than 30 miles of hiking trails. Head a bit further north and you’ll find camping, picnicking sites, and hiking opportunities at Valley of Fire State Park.  

Quelch your need for speed with some off-roading adventure. Load up into a one-of-a-kind rugged, yet luxurious, all-terrain vehicle and go for a wild ride through desert landscape areas inaccessible to most on a Pink Jeep Tour .

Or see Las Vegas like never before with Sun Buggy Fun Rentals , offering one of the largest fleets of custom, off-road vehicles including dune buggies, ATVs, and UTVs. If you want to stay on the road but still go fast, hit up SPEEDVEGAS to get behind the wheel of exotic race cars.

Get down and dirty and while operating excavators, bulldozers, a backhoe, and other massive machinery at a true Only Vegas experience -  Dig This Vegas . The full-size bulldozer and excavator playground allows you to move mountains of dirt, stack monster rocks, dig huge holes, crush cars, and much more. It even has a kid’s dig session where the little ones can get into the action. VEGAS ON gives you the guide to this one-of-a-kind playground

Fly Like an Eagle

Get a bird’s-eye view of Las Vegas in the coolest way possible – on a zipline. Earn your bragging rights when you fly along the Strip at 35 mph on the Fly LINQ Zipline at The LINQ Promenade + Experience . You can choose to take off while seated, lying flat, or backwards, and you can fly with up to 10 of your friends at the same time.

Or, head downtown to experience  Slotzilla  – the high-flying attraction where you get hooked to a harness and soar over the crowds on  Fremont Street  and under the Viva Vision canopy.

Experience a different side of Las Vegas and get outside during your next visit! 

VEGAS HIKING TOURS

Vegas Hiking Tours is the premier outdoor adventure company in Las Vegas! We offer amazing hiking tours and day trips to some of the most beautiful places in the area, like Red Rock and Valley of Fire. Our experienced guides will lead you on an unforgettable journey through the desert, where you can take in the stunning views and spot some of the region’s wildlife. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just getting started, our tours are designed to provide an enjoyable and safe experience for all. So come join us and explore the wild side of Las Vegas with Vegas Hiking Tours!

Valley Of Fire

Take a hike at one of the most beautiful and unique spots in Las Vegas. Located just an hour away from the strip, the Valley Of Fire offers a variety of trails, arches, interesting rock formations, petroglyphs, and much more. 

RED ROCK CANYON

Escape the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas, and spend the day hiking through the beautiful canyons of Red Rock Canyon National Park. Experience towering cliffs, interesting wildlife, petroglyphs, and more. 

MT. CHARLESTON

Hike on one of the many trails of the picturesque Mt. Charleston such as Mary Jane Falls, Echo Trail, Canyon Trail Head, and many more. Experience beautiful scenery that you wouldn’t believe is a part of Las Vegas!

Explore the iconic Hoover Dam and the hiking trails surrounding this beautiful breathtaking area. You’ll be able to view the serene Colorado River and spend time driving through Lake Mead National Park. 

Discover Unlimited Beauty

What are you waiting for?

Best 15 Outdoor Adventure Activities Near Las Vegas

I may earn income from affiliate links or partnerships in this post. I spend time to curate tours or products that align with my values. Thanks for supporting my work, at no additional cost to you.

Last updated on August 25th, 2021 at 12:08 pm

I always said, you can take the girl out of Alaska, but you can’t take Alaska out of the girl. Growing up surrounded by amazing nature I was constantly outside exploring. When I moved to Vegas my friends frequently asked me how I survived living in the desert for two years. Simple. I do what I did back at home, just in a lot less clothing! The area surrounding Las Vegas, Nevada has some amazing nature and lots of outdoor adventures and things to do to satisfy every outdoor lover’s need for exploration. With Las Vegas’ central location in the South West, you can easily explore hot springs, National Parks, kayak, rock climb, hike, bike, and even snowboard or ski! Next time you’re in Vegas and need a break from the strip, try one of these adrenaline-fueled outdoor activities near Las Vegas.

Most of these things to do in the outdoors require a car or going through a company because you will need to be properly outfitted. If you have any questions or think you need help planning one of these adventures I am just an email away. Remember the desert can be a dangerous place. Some of these activities, like long hikes or bike rides, can be better in the winter with cooler temperatures. Similarly, higher altitudes in the winter can mean snow and ice. Always tell a friend where you’re going, bring water and food and if you’re not experienced hire a guide to help you.

1. Go Hiking

Hiking in mt. charleston .

The mountain range, just west of Las Vegas, hosts a bevy of hiking trails in a climate that feels like North California. My favorite hike for beginners is Mary Jane Falls. While this hike is quite steep climbing about 1,000 feet, it’s fairly short, about 2 miles. The view from the top looking down at Kyle Canyon is worth it though. Don’t expect to see falls here unless it’s springtime or just rained.

Another one of my favorite hikes in this area is out to Mummy Mountain. It is a 5-mile hike out and back trail. The beginning has a decent amount of elevation gain, but once you reach the highest altitude the views are amazing. Make sure to pay your respects to Raintree, the 3,000-year-old Bristlecone Pine, which is thought to be the oldest living thing in the state of Nevada. Bring lots of water and a warmer jacket in the winter and fall. The temps drop down to freezing due to the elevation.

Gold Strike Canyon Hot Springs Hike

This is a well-known secret among locals. It’s an awesome trek out to the Colorado River. During your hike, you can relax in a hot tub style hot spring and challenge yourself with minimal repelling. The tail head is hard to find, but if you’re coming from Las Vegas take exit 2 off I93 BEFORE you cross the Pat Tillman Bridge. At the end of the exit ramp, make a right at the stop sign and go down the hill into a dirt parking lot where you will see other cars and the trailhead sign. This hike can take up to 4 hours, includes 8 fixed ropes for climbing and while the elevation gain is minimal it has a reputation for “kicking my butt.” The first 1.5 miles or so is pretty easy walking through a dried up lake bed. After that, you’ll find the first obstacle if you use common sense you can make it down and up, but if you’re scared you can hire a guide or ask another hiker to help you. Make sure you’re not out after dark and are aware of your surroundings, look for white arrows, pointing to the trail. Bring snacks, water, have fun and BE SAFE!

If you want a group to hike with our need help planning check out Grand Canyon Tour Company They have great hiking options and are knowledgeable.

Lake Mead Hiking

Get away from the crowds with a private and intimate guided hike in a very small group . The hike is catered to your needs and even allows for quiet time if you want to meditate or do yoga in a peaceful natural setting. Since every guided hike is different, you’re guaranteed to escape crowds and connect with nature. They even provide you with backpacks and hiking poles as needed.

2. Kayaking & SUPing

Las Vegas may be located smack dab in the middle of the desert, but it’s close to the mighty Colorado River and Lake Mead, which means water sports like kayaking and stand up paddle boarding!

Kayaking in the Colorado River

My favorite Kayak trip goes up the Colorado River with views of the Hoover Dam! Along the way, you can spot wildlife and explore Emerald Cave, which is really as green as it looks!. There’s a great new company in town that just opened up called Blazing Paddles and they offer great tours of the Colorado River. If you happen to be in Vegas during a full moon, don’t miss their full moon evening tour, with glowing Kayaks! I had a few friends who were kayak guides for this company and the owner is from my home state, Alaska. They are fantastic!

Kayaking and SUPing in Lake Mead

Lake Mead is a great place to explore by kayak or stand up paddleboard. If you prefer to just relax by a body of water other than a pool, just hang out by the beach for the afternoon and soak up some sun. The water is nice and warm so my favorite thing to do is kayak out to the little islands and swim around. This lake can be quite dangerous, due to high winds, so please always wear a life jacket and don’t go into the lake when windy. I know we were bad girls in this photo, but we had life jackets in the kayak and there was no wind.

If you want to head out to Lake Mead, check out Kayak Las Vegas .

3. Bicycling

Las Vegas is a haven for cyclists. With stunning scenic routes just outside the city, you can get your daily dose of exercise with a killer view! Don’t worry there is awesome downhill mountain biking too, for us adrenaline junkies.

Road Biking in Las Vegas

Red rock canyon loop.

This is seriously one of the most beautiful bike rides out there! The main road is a 20-mile loop, starting on Blue Diamond Road, turning into Red Rock Canyon Road and ends at West Charleston Blvd. If that’s still not enough you can take the scenic route through Red Rock National Preserve, where you pay for entry starting at the visitor center and you get a bonus 13 miles of literally breathtaking red rocks, Joshua trees, and towering mountains. Most of this ride is fairly flat, with some hills. If you’re a bit too hungover and need the aid of an E-Bike rent from EZ Ride LV . They will provide E-bike rental, gear, pick up, and drop off.

Cycling at Lake Mead

If water isn’t your thing, but you still want to see the lake there are some amazing bike trails that run from Henderson-Bounder-Lake Mead and around the lake. This is a technical ride with hills and some serpentine turns thanks to land carved out by lava from ages ago. So, be prepared to have your booty kicked and bring lots of water to replenish all the sweat you’ll be losing.

Mountain Biking In Boulder

I never thought I was much of a mountain biker until I hit the trails at Bootleg Canyon. This is a great place for anyone wanting to get their feet wet into the world of mountain biking or the more advanced rider. Race down the mountain while the glittering lights of Las Vegas twinkle below you. If you want to head out on your own, I recommend checking out the shuttle that runs on the weekends or checking out the company I have listed below.

Check out Bike Blast Las Vegas for all your biking needs from mountain, road and city tours.

4. Rock Climbing

This outdoor activity near Las Vegas gets overlooked quite a lot, but it’s one of the most fun and challenging. The Mountains surrounding Las Vegas are perfect for climbing as they have amazing natural foot and hand holes. Don’t worry if you’re a beginner because there’s climbing for all levels and with the help of the Alpine Institute you can advance your climbing or get it started for the first time.

Looking to relax and explore a local side of Las Vegas, then check out my local hipster and geek guide, for a side of Vegas you didn’t even know existed!

5. Horseback Riding

Enjoy the red rocks and desert landscape surrounding Las Vegas with a horseback ride into the sunset . As the sun sets enjoy a BBQ dinner, including vegetarian options and watch the stars behind to shine. If you are an early riser, try a horseback ride with breakfast.

5. Cliff Jumping

Jump in the car and head out to a side of Lake Mead called Nelson’s Landing. You even drive through a cool ghost town along the way. If you’re unsure of where to jump, ask the locals jumping, but the water is clear enough to tell where you can and can’t jump. Be safe!

6. Jeep Rides and ATV Adventures

I was lucky enough to have access to a jeep while living in Vegas, but there are companies that will take you on a rocking adventure in the desert. The desert surrounding Vegas was made for hardcore off-roading with ATVs, dune buggies, and Jeeps. Buckle up for the adventure of a lifetime, it is seriously a blast! (Kayak not included and don’t worry you won’t get stuck in the mud either, we’re special.)

Check out this epic ATV tour that takes you to the Colorado River, around Lake Mead, and even stop at the Hoover Dam! Or ride in a rough and tumble 4×4 Jeep Wrangler and explore the stunning desert on this wild adventure.

7. Visit Outdoor Nature Centers

Las vegas springs preserve.

This preserve is 180 acres of wildlife walks, animal encounters, and geology, and other science exhibits. Learn about local animals and plants in an educational outdoor experience for the whole family!

Springs Preserve 333 S Valley View Blvd, Las Vegas, NV

8. Scenic Drives

If you prefer to stay inside the cool confines of a car for longer scenic tours there are plenty of drives in the area. The roads have pull outs so you can get out and explore or go on a small hike before hopping back to check out the next stop.

Valley of Fire

Appropriately named for the rocks that appear to be molded from fire, this is the oldest state park in Nevada. The park is less than an hour’s drive from Las Vegas and takes you into the heart of the desert for geology like nowhere else. The firey rocks are Aztec Sandstone that was created during the age of the dinosaur from red desert sands. The area has a decent amount of Indigenous carvings in the rock, which are pretty cool if you can spot them. There’s plenty of photo opportunities, animal sightings and trailheads for longer walks into the wilderness. While this is easily accessed with a personal car, you can also book a tour for a scenic ride or a hike through the area. Whether you want a rough and tumble 4×4 adventur e, a tour with photography assistance , or a more active guided hike there is something for you.

Red Rock National Preserve

Some days I want to relax and find a good place to capture photos! I’ll let you in on a little secret. If you drive the Red Rock loop past the visitor center to watch the sunset, find the first parking lot after the switchback (it might be the 3rd or 4th one from the entrance of the Red Rock Preserve. Set up your camera on a tripod, catch the sunset then see the city light up over the hills.

10. Go Ziplining

No, I don’t mean go Ziplining over the stip! That isn’t outdoorsy enough for me. Head into Boulder the rough and tumble town next door and zip line over red mountain rocks in the mountains.  Zip down 4 lines for a mile and a half of fun for everyone!

Zipline Tours 1644 Nevada Hwy, Boulder City, NV

11. Snowboard or Ski

Lee Canyon near Mt. Charleston turns into a winter wonderland for a few months over the season. This is a great hill for anyone wanting to try snowboarding as you won’t find black diamonds here, but you will have fun! If you’re a more advanced rider, and you’re willing to hike, there are actually some pretty good trails above the lift drop-off! Take a break with some nice hot chocolate in the lodge!

12. Take a Hot Air Baloon Ride

Get up early for a hot air balloon ride over the Mojave Desert . You even get a champagne or juice toast at the end of the 1-hour ride. This tour takes place just outside of Las Vegas so plan for an early and long day, but sunrise is one of my favorite times in the desert and it will be a great experience.

13. Explore Nearby National Parks

Las Vegas is near multiple National Parks, making it the perfect launching point for visiting the Grand Canyon National Park and Death Valley National Park or Zion National Park . Now if you ask me all three of these parks deserve more time to fully explore and appreciate them. All these tours are a long day, but if it is your only chance to see these amazing National Parks, then certainly take advantage!

14. Visit Antelope Canyon

Two of the most visited natural wonders in the United States Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend can be experienced on this long day trip from Las Vegas. These stunning natural areas are one for the bucket list.

Pin for Later

Don’t miss any of these awesome outdoor adventures and activities in Las Vegas, Nevada. Pin it for later or share with your friends. Do you have a favorite outdoor thing to do in Las Vegas? Let me know in the comments!

About the Author: Susanna Kelly-Shankar

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40 comments.

So many great activities for the Desert! Many of these suggestions also apply for the nearby Arizona and California residents. Hiking and the lakes are my favorite desert activities!

The Kayaking trip with the Emerald caves actually starts in Arizona and finishes at the Hoover dam, so it’s cool you can start in one state and end in the other. These activities are great for all outdoor desert lovers.

I never even considered snowboarding as an activity for Las Vegas! I think I’m more of a warmer climate activity girl so I’d go for the hiking or kayaking. Pretty sure my last trip to Las Vegas I was 13 so I didn’t get to try any of these activities – hopefully that’ll change in 2017 :)

Hahah I know, you would never think you could snowboard in Las Vegas, you just think of the desert. Hopefully you make it back in 2017, let me know if you do!

Okay, I’ve been to Vegas more times than I can count and I didnt know about ANY of these. How embarrassing! I’m not a big fan of the slots and shopping so next time I’m going to sneak away and check out Lake Mead. Thanks for all the information!

Happy I could help you find something different! Lake Mead is awesome! I hope you enjoy it.

Great list. I enjoyed my trip to Vegas but as gambling doesn’t really interest me, we went looking for other things to do. I’ve got a friend that goes to Vegas every year (from Australia) and whilst she may have done some of this stuff, I’m sure there’s heaps she hasn’t so sending that on to her.

Thank you for sharing! If she has any questions, feel free to let me know!

I had no idea you could go hiking near Las Vegas or skiing/snowboarding for that matter. I think of it as a flat desert so it’s good to know there is more on offer :)

What a fabulous collection of adventurous activities! My pick would be kayaking. I think it would be wonderful to kayak through such amazing scenery.

Yess! I love this so much. I probably wouldn’t be that into the actual Las Vegas scene with gambling and whatnot (at least not for a fullll trip), but all the outdoor activities are right up my alley. Heck the scenic drive would be the perfect afternoon activity to catch all these views during golden hour!

Glad you enjoyed the post! The scenic drive is the perfect afternoon away from the city, I agree. Thanks for stopping by!

Wow! there’s a lot to do near Vegas! I had no idea there was so much going on. I’ve only ever been to the big hotels and that alone kept us quite busy with all the attractions on the strip. I was also surprised that there is enough snow for snowboarding nearby! I thought it was a desert??

Wow! I never think of Vegas as an adventure destination, but it’s great to hear that there are so many options in the area to get outside and explore. I don’t really have a strong desire to take a trip to go gamble, shop, see shows and eat, but I would be all for this adventurous destination! Thanks for sharing!

Thanks for sharimg the list and i wanna do them all. But what i want to do the most is kayaking in the lake. It looks really breezy and relaxing.

I didn’t realise Las Vegas was big on outdoor activities (I’m guessing you can assume what I thought LV was all about)…

One of my best mates recently did a road trip around that area (and he’s a keen mountain biker) – he’ll be so gutted to know there was a spot he could’ve gone MTB in LV! As I’m a big hiker, I’m pleased to know that there’s more to LV than the casinos. Definitely going to take up your recommendation on Mt. Charleston whenever I go.

Really great overview on what there’s to do in Las Vegas… Good to know there’s somewhere I can escape if I’m in need of some outdoor/adrenaline rush! :)

Wow, I had no idea there was so much to do. I definitely would do Gold Strike Canyon although most of these sound amazing!

I so want to hike there – but kayaking looks even better :) This is on my US road trip bucket list!

You´re such a badass hiker! I love your take on Las Vegas. I never thought of visitng, but this guide gives me some good vibes! :-)

This is a good guide! I’m always interested in doing outdoorsy activities as opposed to city ones, so when we flew into Las Vegas on our trip out west last fall we checked out Valley of Fire, which was awesome! It’s cool to know of other places nearby to see as well if we fly out there again(which I do hope to cause there’s a lot of cool deserty places around lol).

Thank you for this information. We will have a baby with us as well as my 70 year old (active) mother. Are there any easier/paved/stroller friendly hikes in any of these areas?

Hey Donna, I recommend going to the Pittman Wash Trail. It is a shared bike and walking trail that is paved and runs along the Pittman wash river bed. It is a lovely spot and should be easy for a stroller and older active people. The Flamingo Arroyo Trail is a similar walking trail that runs along the Las Vegas wash and should be paved and flat for everyone in your family.

A more challenging option might be the Las Vegas city view trail. It isn’t paved, but if you have the option to carry your child it has some great views. Desert Hills is another area with some paved trails that loop around the park and a small scenic unpaved hike for great views. Exploration Peak is a nice playground area with hiking trails around it. So, you could possibly have someone stay at the playground with the kiddo while others want to hike up to a scenic view.

Oh, and the bird viewing park or the wetlands area might be fun to go walk around and look for birds with the family. Also, the Springs Nature preserve is a great place for the whole family and you walk around, so there is some level of activity involved.

Have fun and I hope you enjoy Vegas!

So much more than casinos and shows! Nevada is beautiful!

You can always spot an Alaskan when they start with “Go Hiking” haha. I LOVED THIS! Absolutely love Nevada’s outdoors!

I have way too many blog posts that start with “Go Hiking” hahah, I guess it is the Alaskan in me! Las Vegas and Nevada have some awesome outdoor options!

I’ve always thought Las Vegas was such a cool place. It’s definitely more than the gambling and drunken marriages it’s known for! Great post on the great outdoors.

I love the fact that you are showing different activities in Las Vegas. I was there 2 years ago and of course, I did typical stuff over there but I knew Las Vegas is something more, I actually loved surroundings. I need plan my next trip and visit Antelope Canyon, it looks amazing!

Antelope Canyon as a day trip from Vegas is totally worth it. The drive out there alone is stunning and exploring the canyons is so special.

I absolutely loved this post. When I lived in LA I visited Las Vegas many times but not for the city or Strip, just for nature! Also went on many various hikes and walks, it was amazing!

I loved reading this. I’ve always wanted to visit Las Vegas for all the glitz and entertainment but my heart lies in nature. It’s great that you can have both in trip to Vegas. I would love all those hikes and kayaking not he iconic Colorado River. Cannot wait to explore Nevada some day.

Yeah I love that you can have a party and play outside in Vegas, an ideal trip would have a balance of both outdoor and poolside drinking. Kayaking in the Colorado River is a blast.

My eyes are opened, I’ve always thought as the countryside round Vegas as ‘just’ desert. So much, incredible scenery to see and hike.

I know it is a big myth that people think Las Vegas is all just dry barren desert! It’s a gorgeous area!

This is exactly what I was looking for as I am starting to plan a week long trip to Las Vegas for my 12 yr old daughter’s Spring Break. We will be there mid March so I’m a little concerned about the weather. Thoughts?

In my opinion, the weather in March is actually perfect for outdoors in Las Vegas. It is honestly too hot for a lot of these things in the middle of the summer. Just make sure to check if the hiking trails are open, sometimes in the mountains, we still have snow in March, but if you book anything with a guide they will ensure the weather is good for the trip. I would also just make sure to stay at a hotel that has a pool open year-round. Some hotels don’t have pools that are open in the winter, but some do. I went to Vegas with my family when I was around 12 and had a blast. Enjoy your trip!

Amazing list. I enjoyed my tour to Vegas but as gambling doesn’t really interest me, we went looking for other things to do. I’ve got a friend that goes to Vegas every year (from Australia) and whilst she may have done some of this stuff, I’m sure there’s heaps she hasn’t so sending that on to her.

Glad you found some useful outdoor experiences to have in Vegas, they are great alternatives for anyone not that into gambling.

I want to visit Vegas not only for clubs but nature as well.I am glad I found your post,bookmarked it for my visit in October.

I’m not much for Vegas but love natural Nevada! Valley of Fire was a highlight of my recent road trip and I’d love to see more. Hopefully I can put this list to use soon!

I lived in Vegas just briefly and I agree – not so much for the typical Vegas, but I loved seeing all the beautiful nature.

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Las Vegas Outdoor Adventures

• Category: Colorado River Tours, Lake Mead Tours
• Locations: Colorado River, Hoover Dam, Lake Mead
• Tour length: 180 minutes.
• Transportation type: ATV, Dune buggy, Shuttle
• .product-details-boxclip-trigger:not(.expanded)').click();" data-label="{{innerText}}">TOUR Times and Tickets
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Guest reviews, select your date & time, las vegas outdoor adventures photos.

Throw on those goggles, slip on those gloves and get ready to ride white knuckle through Lake Mead National Park with the Las Vegas Outdoor Adventures tour.

Ok, so maybe "white knuckle" is a bit of a stretch, but the part about riding an ATV through Lake Mead National Park is real. And maybe even cooler (like literally cooler), is the part where you stop by the Colorado River to go for a swim. Even if you're not down with getting wet, it's still great spot for a selfie or two. With all that ATV riding, picture taking and potential swimming action going down, you're going to be hungry. Don't worry about grubbing, because you'll get to chow down on a burger (or vegetarian option) for lunch before the adventure ends.

Between us, the goggles and gloves make anything you do look like you're going really fast. So if you want to tell your friends that you were doing 100 on an ATV through Lake Mead, we won't tell them otherwise.

Las Vegas Outdoor Adventures Details

• Special requirements: Guests must not exceed 275 pounds and must wear shoes or boots only, as flip-flops and sandals are not permitted. Guests should dress in comfortable clothing. Must be 16 to drive an ATV.
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Top 15 Outdoor Adventure Activities in Las Vegas in 2024

Jessica Nemire Last Updated: October 26, 2023

Tourists have a range of interests and adventure levels. Some travelers would prefer to chill by the pool, while other adventurers want to get their adrenaline going. This guide is specifically for thrill-seeking travelers who want a bit of an adventure when they come to Sin City. Read on to plan the most memorable adventure activities in Las Vegas.

The Best Adventure Activities in and around Las Vegas

There are so many heart-pumping adventures to be had in Las Vegas and its surrounding areas. Vegas is close to many lakes and (obviously) deserts, creating lots of opportunities for water sports and off-roading adventures. Not only that, but there are actually lots of thrill-inducing activities you can do right here on the famous Vegas Strip or on Fremont Street!

Whether you’d rather rent a jet ski or bungee jump off of an iconic hotel, if you are seeking some adventure on your trip to Vegas, this list is for you. Keep reading to get inspiration for the top adventure activities in and around Las Vegas.

15. Hike Through the Valley of Fire

One of our favorite activities to do near Vegas is hiking through the Valley of Fire, which is located just 45 minutes out of the city. See ancient petroglyphs high up on the rocks, take epic photos of BeeHives rock formation, and admire the jaw-dropping views at Rainbow Vista. We also confidently bet that you have never seen anything like the contrasting colors at the White Domes.

It’s not called the “Valley of Fire” for nothing. While many assume the desert is a boring place with nothing to see, the Valley of Fire will prove them wrong. Find out why by heading here for the day or evening, whether on your own or with a tour. If you schedule a tour around sunset, you will see why this epic location gets its name. Don’t forget your hiking boots and water!

14. See Vegas from a Different Perspective on the High Roller Ferris Wheel

Located at the LINQ Hotel, the High Roller Ferris Wheel is for thrill-seekers who prefer their adventures on the slightly tamer side. There’s no shame in that! The awesome Ferris wheel is called the High Roller, and it takes riders 550 feet into the air where they gaze down at the city lights below. This 28-cabin ride goes fairly slowly, so you’ll be able to grab pics for the ‘Gram. The High Roller is a fun activity any time of day, but it’s especially impressive at sunset!

If you have young adventurers with you, they can join you for this ride as it is considered all ages. However, adults do have the option of purchasing a package that includes an open bar, so you can toast your friends to the Vegas views below you! Address:  3535 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas Cost:  $23.50 – $34.75 for adults; $8.50 – $17.50 for kids; $60.00 for open bar

13. Get Upside Down on a NYC-Themed Roller Coaster

Attached to the New York New York Hotel & Casino, the Big Apple Coaster goes 64 miles per hour and features twists, turns, and a 203-foot drop! This iconic roller-coaster also treats its riders to a brief moment of dangling upside-down over the Las Vegas Strip! Children are welcome to ride Big Apple Coaster as long as they are at least 54 inches tall (4-and-a-half feet). Every year, 1.4 million riders dare to try this coaster, making it a thrill-seeking favorite. Just don’t eat a big meal right before riding!

The Big Apple Coaster is open Monday – Thursday from 1 p.m. until 9 p.m. and Friday – Sunday from 11 a.m. until midnight.

Address:   3790 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas Cost:  $19 – $23

12. Fly High Through Fremont Street on the Slotzilla Zipline

Downtown Las Vegas is home to the Fremont Street Experience, a mecca of fun activities where visitors explore downtown Vegas in unique ways. One of our favorite adventure activities here is the Slotzilla Zipline. Standing 77 feet above Fremont Street, the ride begins outside of the Fremont Street Experience before sliding under the largest video screen in the world.

You can glide Superman-style at 11 stories above the street for 5 blocks, which is the classic way to ride this zipline. Some thrill-seekers opt instead for the Zip-Zilla experience in which riders zipline for just 2 blocks and only 7 stories above the street instead. No matter which height you choose, Slotzilla is an epic way to see Fremont Street, which is why it’s a must-do adventure activity in Las Vegas. Address: 425 E Fremont St #160, Las Vegas, NV Cost: $39-$59

11. Race Your Friends In Supercars

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to race in a supercar, now’s your chance! Get behind the wheel of a Lamborghini, Porsche, Ferrari, Mustang, or the supercar of your dreams with Exotics Racing. They have the largest collection of supercars in the world, so it’s a safe bet you can drive that dream car!

If you want to experience the thrill of speeding in a supercar without having to get behind the wheel yourself, you can also book a seat as a passenger with a professional doing all the driving. If you have kids with you, they can explore the go-kart track while you take a spin in a Lambo. This heart-pumping activity is pretty popular in Vegas, so this would be a good one to plan ahead of time!

Address:   7065 Speedway Blvd, Las Vegas, NV Cost : $299 for 5 laps

10. Ride Through the Desert on Horseback

Live out your wild west fantasies by booking a horseback tour adventure through the desert! Start your day right by trotting through the peaceful desert with spectacular views of sunrise or sunset over the mountains! Never ridden horseback before? No worries! This tour is led by guides who are there to help you navigate even the more rugged terrain with a gentle horse who knows the way. Since riding in the desert can get hot pretty quickly in the summer months, the best way to try this Vegas adventure activity is to book a sunrise or sunset tour. In both cases, that essential meal of the day is included, which makes the adventure even more memorable. When you’re visiting this dusty western region, riding horseback is almost a rite of passage, so don’t skip this fun activity!

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a horseback riding tour in Vegas is worth it .

9. Snorkel With Stingrays

This activity is fun for kids and adults who are fascinated by the creatures of the ocean — even though you’re in the desert. You can snorkel with stingrays at SeaQuest, and if you’re lucky, you might even get a few stingray kisses! Also in the tank with you will be some other fish and sea creatures. SeaQuest will provide you with a wetsuit, but make sure you bring a swimsuit and towel! This excursion is family-friendly, and there is no age requirement. However, please note that every adventurous snorkeler must be able to swim 100 feet. Younger adventurers who cannot swim can still snorkel with the rays, but they must stay with a supervising adult and wear a life jacket. Other fun activities include feeding animals and marine life here. Address: 3528 S Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV Cost: $49.99/person for a shared encounter; $249.95/group for a private excursion (up to 6 participants)

8. Jump or Dangle Off of the STRAT

Sure, everyone who comes to Vegas has seen the iconic STRAT hotel. But have they ever jumped off it? Be the first of your friends to try this adventure activity in Las Vegas. Leap off the 829-tall building at SkyJump!

And if bungee jumping is not your thing, but you still want to experience the famous thrill rides? Strap yourself into the Big Shot and catapult yourself off the side of the STRAT, or opt for the Insanity ride and dangle off the side of the building.

Alternatively, you can propel yourself 27 feet over the edge with the X-Scream coaster that lurches to a stop in mid-air. Yikes! No matter which thrill you choose, the STRAT has rides that are sure to get your heart pumping.

All four thrill rides are open from 2 p.m. until 10 p.m. from Monday – Thursday, and noon to midnight Friday – Sunday.

Address:  2000 Las Vegas Blvd S, Las Vegas Cost:  $139 for SkyJump; $39 for each of the other thrill rides

7. Do Some Skydiving — But Indoors

Are you into boosting your adrenaline but not super into jumping off of buildings or out of airplanes? This activity is for you! Vegas Indoor Skydiving allows you to experience the thrill of skydiving without involving any actual planes or serious heights. If you’re curious about skydiving but not 100% sure about it, this is a great first step! Plus, it’s super fun! First-time flyers can pick the Learn to Fly package, which gives you an hour to learn indoor skydiving basics. More advanced or intrepid flyers can go with the Indoor Skydiving Experience package for a longer flight time at a higher price. This is another one where your young thrill-seekers can come along too! Address: 200 Convention Center Dr, Las Vegas, NV Cost: $85 for Learn to Fly, $149 for Indoor Skydiving Experience

6. Jet Ski Around Lake Mead

Formed by the Hoover Dam, Lake Mead is a reservoir about 24 miles from the famous Vegas Strip. It’s one of our top picks for adventure activities away from the Strip craziness! Experience Lake Mead by renting jet skis to race your friends. You can spend the whole day here as you zip through the lake creating waves. If another water craft is more your speed, Las Vegas Boat And Jet Ski Rentals also has power boats, wakeboard boats, and pontoon boats you can rent all day long in order to explore the lake. Whether you’re a more cautious adventurer or prefer your jaunts to be full speed ahead, renting boats on Lake Mead is sure to be a good time for you and your group! Address: 4375 S Valley View Blvd #G, Las Vegas, NV Cost: $300 USD for a full day rental

5. Explore the Nellis Sand Dunes in a Dune Buggy

The Nellis Dunes Off-Highway Vehicle area is more than 10,000 acres of dusty terrain that you can explore by off-roading in a truck, ATV, or dune buggy! SunBuggy Fun Rentals lets you explore the Nevada desert in the best way using any of their off-roading vehicles. If you have a need for speed, their website mentions that they offer “chase experiences,” in which they encourage adventurers to “drive like you’re trying to get away with something.” You can select the Vegas Mini Baja Chase, which includes a Strip view from the top of the dunes, or dare to try their night chase. It’s a nighttime race through the desert which is an adrenaline-pumping way to start the rest of your night in Vegas. There’s a large variety of heart-pumping ATV and dune buggy tours offered, so pick your favorite and hold on!

Address: 6925 Speedway Blvd c106, Las Vegas, NV Cost: prices vary — ATV tours start at $129

4. Explore a Cave in a Glass-Bottomed Kayak

The beautiful Colorado River is fun to explore by kayak, but did you know it also contains a green cove that is only accessible by boat? Emerald Cove, located along Black Canyon, is situated right where the Colorado River runs along the Arizona and Nevada border.

There are steep canyon walls on both sides, making it hard to access. Because of the way the sunlight hits the algae in Emerald Cove, this magnificent natural phenomenon turns the water a vibrant emerald green, which we can only assume is how they picked the name, of course. We recommend a kayaking tour with a clear-bottomed kayak to see the water beneath you!  Address: Willow Beach, AZ

3. Shoot Guns and Ride Monster Trucks on Adrenaline Mountain

True to the name, Adrenaline Mountain is basically an adrenaline junkie’s haven. Here you can shoot machine guns, go off-roading, get behind the wheel of a monster truck, throw axes, crush rocks, plus other fun adventure activities near Vegas. Adrenaline Mountain also gives you an opportunity to zoom past 100-year old mines and grab epic pictures to remember your awesome day.

Whether you’d rather be off-roading or shooting a target, there is something for every thrill-seeker at this unique destination. It’s also a great spot for birthdays and other celebrations with a group — even weddings if that’s your jam.

Address: 15357 Kingston Rd, Sloan, NV Cost: $145 for shooting, $225 for off-roading

2. Go ATV Off-Roading in Eldorado Canyon

This is easily one of the most epic guided adventures on this list. For starters, you get to take an off-road ATV tour around Eldorado Canyon. As if that wasn’t cool enough, you also get to drive through cool cactus gardens and transport yourself to the 1800s as you explore the Techatticup Gold Mine. Your guide will share stories about what the miners went through and see the antique tools they used. Throughout your off-roading adventure, you might even be able to spot some wild animals! After a full day of off-roading and exploring an old mine, fill up on lunch before heading back to the city. Please note that ATV drivers must be at least 16 years old, and those under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. 

1. See the Grand Canyon from a Helicopter’s View

Everyone knows that taking a tour of the Grand Canyon is one of best things to do while visiting Vegas. After all, it’s one of the seven natural wonders of the world and truly is breathtaking to see. But have you considered seeing it by helicopter? It’s the fastest way to see the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas, and it’s certainly the most epic.

You can take a helicopter tour of either the West Rim or the South Rim. No matter which one you choose, there is nothing like being 3,500 feet high up in the air witnessing one of the world’s greatest natural wonders below you. Enjoy the breath-taking views as you soar above the canyon and stop for pictures along the canyon’s edge. Those memories will last a lifetime!

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

Discover some of the most iconic and best places to stay in Las Vegas to make this trip the most memorable of all your trips to the Strip.

About Jessica Nemire

Jessica Nemire has been writing about about travel since 2011. She graduated from San Francisco State University in 2016 with a BA in journalism. She loves the ocean, Mission District burritos, and amazing sunsets.

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15 Things to Do Outside Las Vegas – Best Attractions Near Vegas

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The number of things to do near Las Vegas  is so vast that we knew we had to write a guide about it. While there are lots of  things to do in Las Vegas , when you venture off the Strip, you can find even more cool attractions.

This city is a popular stop on a West Coast road trip, so you might want to  rent a car in Las Vegas   or read our guide to  renting an RV in the US . Of course, if you don’t want to drive, there are lots of great  day trips from Las Vegas  that you can take advantage of.

That said, if you want to get off the beaten path and explore some of the  best places to visit in Las Vegas off the Strip , we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re traveling alone, with kids, or as a couple, you’ll find all kinds of  things to do near Vegas and the surrounding areas.

From day trips to the nearby natural areas to unique attractions just outside of Sin City, you’ll find lots of cool  places to visit near Las Vegas by car . Keep reading to see how you can make the most of your time in Las Vegas, Nevada!

1. Red Rock Canyon, a beautiful place to visit near Las Vegas

Without a doubt,  Red Rock Canyon  is one of the  best places to visit in Las Vegas off the Strip . When you’re tired of the noisy casinos and crowded attractions, nothing beats some quiet time in nature!

A visit to this natural area is a great  outdoorsy thing to do in Las Vegas  to appreciate the beauty of the desert. As the name suggests, the region is comprised of reddish rock walls and peaks. This makes it an awesome hiking and climbing spot, so if you’d like to explore, I recommend the  Turtlehead Peak Trail , which is about 4.5 miles long but quite difficult, and one of the best hikes in Red Rock Canyon.

You could also take the  Calico Tanks Trail  if you want something a bit easier but still just as scenic, or the 5-mile  Ash Creek to Calico Tanks Route .

If you’re not a hiker, don’t let that stop you from seeing this beautiful  off-the-Strip attraction near Las Vegas . This  canyon tour is a good alternative and takes you to the most impressive parts of Red Rock, such as the Wilson Cliffs. For more ideas, check our guide on things to do in Red Rock Canyon Las Vegas.

2. Visit Grand Canyon, the best thing to do outside Las Vegas

The  Grand Canyon  is just a few hours from Sin City by car, so visiting it is one of the top  things to do near Las Vegas . It’s such a popular place that we have a separate guide full of  tips for visiting the Grand Canyon  in a day.

2. Visit the Grand Canyon, the best thing to do outside Las Vegas

While you could spend more time there, if you only have a day, you could take a  Grand Canyon helicopter tour   to experience the immense beauty of this place. It’s one of the best  family things to do in Las Vegas off the Strip , too. A birds-eye view of the canyon and massive rock formations makes for an unforgettable trip.

If you’re renting a vehicle, then the Grand Canyon is a  place you must visit near Las Vegas by car . However, if you don’t want to drive, there are lots of  Grand Canyon tours from Las Vegas . If you’re traveling on a budget, the  West Rim bus tour from Las Vegas is a good choice, but you can check our guide for all the top options.

3. Hoover Dam & Lake Mead, two must-sees in Las Vegas off the Strip

The  Hoover Dam  makes for another cool  road trip from Las Vegas . Plus, if you’re traveling with kids, it’s a great  family thing to do in Las Vegas off the Strip . What better way to get away from the hustle and bustle than to see this modern marvel up close?

The Dam created the largest reservoir in the country,  Lake Mead , which you can visit on  this day tour . Moreover, the Hoover Dam is included in the  Go Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass (the best CityPass in Las Vegas ), too.

If you’re looking for  things to do outside Las Vegas  for the day, the Hoover Dam is only about 45 minutes from the city. That said, you can combine the dam with the Grand Canyon on  this full-day tour , which includes transportation.

4. Springs Preserve, a little-known attraction in Las Vegas off the Strip

Sometimes, it can be challenging to find appropriate  things for kids to do in Las Vegas , and this is where the  Springs Preserve  comes in. It has 180 acres of sustainable gardens and trails, as well as museums and galleries about the evolution of Las Vegas and the surrounding desert.

The Springs Preserve is the perfect  thing to do in the Las Vegas area  because it’s not far from the casinos and hotels. At the same time, it’s a lovely natural place with plenty of entertaining exhibits. If you’re looking for  outdoor things to do in Las Vegas , but you’re worried about how young kids will hold up, check this place out!

It’s also worth noting that the Springs Preserve is included in the  Go Las Vegas All-Inclusive Pass  if you want to take advantage of that.

5. Death Valley, the best place to visit outside Las Vegas

As we mention in our guide to  visiting Death Valley , we run photography workshops in this national park every year. Death Valley is just a couple of hours from Sin City, so it’s an incredible  place to visit near Las Vegas by car .

The national park is in the Mojave Desert in California, and if you don’t want to drive there, you can take a Death Valley tour from Las Vegas . I recommend this full-day tour . As one of the hottest places on earth, Death Valley is a popular  attraction near Las Vegas off the Strip . However, temperatures here can reach 135ºF, so be sure to stay near the main areas. This is another reason why having a tour guide is a good idea!

The lowest point of Death Valley is the  Badwater Basin , which is over 280 feet below sea level. It’s also one of the biggest salt flats in the world, so I consider visiting it to be one of the coolest  things to do outside Las Vegas .

6. Antelope Canyon, one of the most popular attractions near Las Vegas

One of the best places to visit in Las Vegas off the Strip  is  Antelope Canyon . Located in Arizona, about 4.5 hours from the city, we think it’s one of the most special  places to visit near Las Vegas . We loved it so much that we wrote all about our experience  visiting Antelope Canyon .

Antelope Canyon is a photographer’s dream, which is part of why we prioritized it to take a  road trip from Las Vegas . The play of light on the geological formations and spiral arches is something you must see.

That said, the reserve is on Navajo land and you can only visit if you hire a guide. I recommend  this tour , which also includes a trip to nearby  Horseshoe Bend , a horseshoe-shaped meander with an imposing view. We wrote about visiting Horseshoe Bend , and we thought this was an excellent  outdoor thing to do while in Las Vegas .

7. Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area, the best of Las Vegas’ surrounding areas

The  Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area   is another cool  place to visit near Las Vegas by car . This historical area is full of ancient petroglyphs, including over 300 rock art panels. They’re a  must-see in Las Vegas off the Strip .

As you make your way through this natural space, you can see remnants of the Archaic civilization of the Nevada desert. Not only is it a  free thing to do in Las Vegas off the Strip , but it’s quite enlightening to look at the petroglyphs and try to decipher what they mean.

Hiking in Sloan Canyon is a great  thing to do outside Las Vegas  when you get tired of the crowds. While access is restricted, there are a few trails you can check out. The best hikes near Las Vegas are the Sloan Canyon and Sloan Cyn Anthem Trails, as well as the Petroglyphs Trail and Sloan Quarry Loop.

8. Valley of Fire State Park, another cool attraction off the Las Vegas Strip

The  Valley of Fire State Park   is the oldest state park in Nevada and one of the top  outdoor things to do in Las Vegas . The area is perfect for camping and hiking, and the views will leave you breathless. 

Exploring the park is a great  thing to do outside Las Vegas  if you’d like to spend more time in nature and enjoy some peace and quiet. While you’re hiking, keep an eye out for reptiles, foxes, and other small mammals, as well as the gorgeous landscape.

The park gets its name from the stunning Aztec sandstone, which creates red formations millions of years in the making. If you go at the right time, the sun glints off the rocks and makes them look like they’ve been set ablaze. You will see why visiting it is a must-do in Nevada.

To get the best experience at the Valley of Fire, I recommend  this hiking tour  with hotel pick-up. You can choose a hiking trail to suit your fitness level, and you’ll see ancient petroglyphs, climb rock scrambles, and take in the immense desert scenery.

We didn’t visit during our first time in Las Vegas, but it is now one of my favorite things to do in Las Vegas off the Strip  and I can’t wait to come back and spend some more time there.

9. Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument, a great place around Vegas

Sin City may be known for its nightlife, but there are lots of  things to do in Las Vegas during the day , like visiting  Tule Springs . This national monument is a  must-see off the Strip in Las Vegas , so if you have some spare time, I highly recommend it.

The Tule Springs Fossil Beds were declared a national monument in 2014 to protect and preserve its paleontological remains of the Ice Age. Here, you can see the fossil remains of mammoths, lions, camels, horses, bison, wolves, and other ancient species. It’s a stunning  place to visit off the Strip in Las Vegas with family.

While you’re there, be sure to visit the nearby  Floyd Lamb Park , which is just a mile from the Strip. It’s one of the quietest  places to visit near Las Vegas  and makes for a great picnic or relaxation spot. There, you can explore the walking trails and the  Tule Springs Ranch , where you can learn about life in this area before Las Vegas was established.

10. See the Seven Magic Mountains, a free thing to do in Las Vegas off the Strip

Just 30 minutes from downtown,   Seven Magic Mountains  is a cool  attraction in Las Vegas that’s off the Strip . It was created by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone and is comprised of seven colorful totem poles in the Mojave Desert.

Seven Magic Mountains  is an antithesis to the artist’s other project,  Human Nature , which features natural materials in a manmade environment. The totem poles range in height from 30 to 35 feet and weigh between 10 and 25 tons individually. They’re a  must-see in Las Vegas off the Strip , particularly for the unique juxtaposition of human intervention and natural space.

If you have time for more  things to do around Las Vegas , I recommend  this tour, which combines  Seven Magic Mountains with Red Rock Canyon. Of course, if you prefer keeping things simple, the art installation by itself is a wonderful free thing to do in Las Vegas off the strip .

11. Area 51 tour, an unusual thing to do near Las Vegas

For  something fun to do off the Strip in Las Vegas , consider an  Area 51 tour . Just a few minutes from the hustle and bustle, you can see some of the creepiest and mysterious sights in the desert.

The area is full of secret spots associated with extraterrestrial activity, but to see them, you need to book an excursion. I recommend this  full-day tour , which takes you to the Area 51 airbase at Groom Lake, the Little A’le’ Inn, the Black Mailbox, and other UFO-related  places to visit near Las Vegas .

Your journey begins at the Janet Airlines hangars, which is believed to be the place where workers were secretly transported to Area 51. Along the way, you’ll learn about the secret military base at Area 51 and several unsolved alien stories and theories. They say that Area 51 is the site of extraterrestrial autopsies and highly advanced research and technology, so it’s an interesting place to go.

Whether you believe in aliens or not, this tour is fascinating and one of the most entertaining  attractions in Las Vegas off the Strip .

12. Clark County Wetlands Park, a family place to visit in Las Vegas & its surroundings

Another soothing  thing to do in Las Vegas and its surrounding areas  is to walk around  Clark County Wetlands Park . The entire park is environmentally sustainable, with an educational nature center and several miles of walking trails.

Not only is a visit to the park a relaxing  thing to do around Las Vegas , but it’s totally free. I recommend taking the  Nature Preserve Trail  for the spectacular views and some quiet time away from the busy Strip. There are rest areas where you can take a breather or enjoy a picnic.

While you’re traveling along the trail, keep an eye out for jackrabbits, ducks, herons, and other desert critters.

13. Goldstrike Canyon Hot Springs, a romantic thing to do outside Las Vegas

For a  romantic thing to do in Las Vegas off the Strip , take your partner to the  Goldstrike Canyon Hot Springs . They’re right outside historic Boulder City, about 40 minutes outside Las Vegas. This is the perfect  thing to do outside Las Vegas  if you’re an outdoorsy couple like us!

The Goldstrike Hot Springs Trailhead is about a half-mile from the parking lot off Highway 93. You can either hike/scramble to the springs, or kayak along the Colorado River through the Black Canyon. Both are scenic trips, and the effort is worth it, as this is a beautiful place to visit near Las Vegas .

While the trail is about 2 miles each way, you will have to descend a series of rope climbs to get into the canyon. Also, due to extreme temperatures, the area is closed between May and September.

That said, if you go at the right time and you’re up for the physical effort, you’ll find hot springs, grottos, and waterfalls. I think this is a fun  thing to do in Las Vegas as a couple , as you can spend some alone time together surrounded by the pristine geothermal environment.

14. Nevada Southern Railroad Museum, another family thing to do off the Las Vegas Strip

A visit to the  Nevada Southern Railroad Museum  is a nice  family thing to do off the Las Vegas Strip . Located in Boulder City, on the tracks that were built to make the Hoover Dam, the museum is an interesting place for kids and adults.

Here, you can hop aboard a train and travel along the heritage railroad while learning about the history and construction of the Hoover Dam. Inside the museum, take a look at dozens of locomotives, or even try your hand at being a train engineer.

The museum is a great place for kids and will give them  something fun to do in Las Vegas off the Strip .

15. Zion & Bryce Canyon, the best places to visit near Las Vegas

Without hesitating, I would say that  Zion National Park  and  Bryce Canyon  are two of the top  places to visit near Las Vegas . You can check out our guides on visiting Zion National Park and visiting Bryce Canyon  for the best tips to plan your trip to these two national parks.

First, Zion National Park is a few hours northeast of Sin City, and it’s one of my favorite  outdoor things to do near Las Vegas . The hiking trails will take you to some of the most spectacular lookouts in the country, like Angels Landing or the Narrows.

Zion is pretty close to Bryce Canyon, one of the best places to visit off the Las Vegas Strip . This region is full of hoodoos, or unique rock formations that you can’t find anywhere else. Plus, numerous hiking trails can take you to some of the most popular geological structures, like Thor’s Hammer or Queen Victoria.

Since these are two vast areas, if you have little time I recommend taking a guided tour like  this one , which includes transportation from Las Vegas and the entrance and guide for these two national parks.

Now you have all the information you need to explore on your own and check out the best things to do near Las Vegas . I hope this guide helped you realize that, even there are many things to do in Las Vegas Strip, there is more to Sin City than gambling and expensive hotels.

If you have any questions about things to do in Las Vegas and the surrounding areas , leave me a comment below and I’ll do my best to help you. Thanks for reading, and happy trails!

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Ascen Aynat

9 replies on “ 15 Things to Do Outside Las Vegas – Best Attractions Near Vegas ”

Hi I would in Las Vegas on 28 and 29 of Dec 2023 with my Wife.

Any recommendations for Nature lovers?

I would like to do a one day road trip may be on 29th Dec. 2023.

Hi Theenan, I always love going to the Valley of Fire . Great hikes and views there. You can also take advantage of Las Vegas’s location to visit the Grand Canyon . We have more ideas in our Las Vegas day trips guide. 🙂

I’ve been absent for a while, but now I remember why I used to love this website. Thank you, I’ll try and check back more frequently. How frequently you update your website?

Hi Ascen. Do you know of any tours from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon that start a little later in the day? Most are at 6:00/ 7:00

Hi Crystal, It’s a long drive, so that’s why most Grand Canyon tours from Las Vegas start early in the morning. If you opt for a flight tour, you can get away with a later start time.

Where would the best place to stay be? We’re on the east coast and it’s cheapest to fly into Vegas but Vegas doesn’t interest us we want to visit National parks and hike

Hi Cindy, I totally get that. Las Vegas is surrounded by beautiful places but if casinos and partying is not your thing, I really recommend doing one of the road trips from Las Vegas I recommend in this guide.

From the 15 options above which do you think are most disabled friendly? I use a cane and can tire easy, but would love to visit all of the options mentioned if safe for me to do so.

I would do for sure Grand Canyon, the Springs Preserve, and Bryce Canyon. Let me know if you have any other questions,

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Antiques lovers, assemble! ‘Roadshow’ kicks off 2024 tour in Las Vegas — PHOTOS

P opular TV series “Antiques Roadshow” kicked off the first stop of its five-city 2024 production tour Wednesday at Springs Preserve in Las Vegas.

Wednesday’s outdoor event attracted 7,200 applications from the public for 2,000 pairs of tickets. Each ticketed guest was allowed to bring two items for experts to appraise.

The PBS series, in its 29th season, has been delighting lucky guests with healthy appraisals of their knickknacks and tchotchkes, while crushing the dreams of others who only have knockoffs, since 1997.

Three episodes were recorded and will air on Vegas PBS sometime next year. The show airs Mondays at 8 p.m.

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