Best Places To See On The Way To Vegas
Best Places To See On The Way To Vegas
The Grand Canyon is a must-see site and one of the most recognizable natural wonders in the US. For breath-taking vistas, you may climb down into the canyon or take a helicopter trip. Hoover Dam: The Hoover Dam, a National Historic Landmark, is a feat of engineering that provides guided tours and mesmerizing Colorado River views. Route 66: Also known as the “Mother Road,” Route 66 is a well-known American road trip that travels through the Mojave Desert. With its retro diners, motels, and roadside attractions, Route 66 gives a look into the past.
Natural Wonders
You will be in awe of the many breathtaking natural treasures along the way to Las Vegas. A must-see is the Grand Canyon, one of the most famous natural wonders in the US. A vast canyon that is 277 miles long, up to 18 miles broad, and one mile deep has been sculpted by the Colorado River. For amazing views, go on a helicopter trip or trek along the rim. The Hoover Dam, a National Historic Landmark that spans the Colorado River, is another marvel. Only 30 minutes outside of Las Vegas, this engineering marvel offers guided tours. Last but not least, a short detour from the main road will take you to the Valley of Fire State Park, which is home to spectacular red sandstone formations and historic petroglyphs. Visit the visitor center to learn more about scenic roads and hiking paths.
1. Red Rock Canyon
Only 20 miles west of Las Vegas is the spectacular natural beauty known as Red Rock Canyon. Take a side trip to explore the picturesque loop that weaves through the red rock formations of the canyon as you make your way towards the city. Numerous activities are available in the area, such as horseback riding, hiking, and rock climbing. Make sure to visit the visitor center to learn more about the area’s distinctive geology and history. From the several lookout sites throughout the loop, take in the beautiful vistas while keeping an eye out for the various animals that call the canyon home. Red Rock Canyon is a must-see stop on your journey to Las Vegas, whether you have a few hours or a whole day to spare.
2. Valley of Fire State Park
Anyone wishing to add a little adventure to their trip to Sin City must visit Valley of Fire State Park, which is only an hour northeast of Las Vegas. The beautiful red sandstone formations in the park will make you feel as though you are on another planet as you drive past them. Watch for the park’s well-known Beehives, historic petroglyphs, and iconic Elephant Rock. Valley of Fire is a fantastic place to enjoy the natural beauty of the American Southwest because of its distinctive landscapes and rich history. It is the ideal addition to your plan because it is a simple detour from the main road to Vegas. Why not make a pit stop and discover this natural gem en route to Las Vegas’s flashing lights and bustling metropolis?
3. Hoover Dam
Anyone visiting Las Vegas must visit the Hoover Dam, a National Historic Landmark that is situated on the border between Arizona and Nevada. The 1,244-foot-long and 726-foot-tall dam, which is an engineering marvel, was built in 1936 to control flooding, supply irrigation water, and produce hydroelectric power. Visitors can learn about the dam’s history and construction at the visitor center, take a guided tour of the facility, and admire the breathtaking Colorado River vistas from the Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. On the way to Las Vegas, the Hoover Dam is a fascinating and educational stop that is sure to leave an effect on everyone who visits.
Historical Landmarks
There are a number of historical sites worth stopping at en route to Las Vegas. A National Historic Landmark that is about 30 minutes outside of Las Vegas is the Hoover Dam. The dam, a work of engineering genius, provides guided tours and breathtaking Colorado River views. The Grand Canyon, which is about a 4-hour trip from Vegas, is another must-see destination. Hiking, camping, and helicopter tours are just a few of the activities available at the Grand Canyon along with spectacular views. The Mojave National Preserve is an excellent place to visit if you’re interested in Native American history. The preserve offers hiking paths and picturesque drives in addition to protecting a number of Native American cultural monuments, including petroglyphs. These historical sites are definitely worth a stop on your trip to Las Vegas because they provide a fascinating look into the area’s fascinating history.
4. Calico Ghost Town
Anyone driving between Los Angeles and Las Vegas must stop at Calico Ghost Town in the Mojave Desert, which is a must-see tourist destination. This 1881-founded old mining community has been preserved to highlight the rich history of the Old West. Along with various restored homes and buildings, the town’s general store, school, and bar are open for visitors to explore. The museum in the community has exhibits on the history of mining and the residents and workers of Calico. Visitors can tour the town’s former mines outside and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding arid environment. Calico Ghost Town is an intriguing and instructive location that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact, whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking for a different stop on your trip to Vegas.
5. Pioneer Saloon
The Pioneer Saloon, a must-see destination for anybody traveling between Los Angeles and Las Vegas, is situated in the middle of the Mojave Desert. Since 1946, this iconic saloon has provided thirsty travelers with a unique look into the colorful past of the American West. A cool beverage, a game of pool, and the saloon’s unusual décor, which includes old signs, antiquities, and even a collection of uncommon animals, all available to guests. A restaurant is located inside the Pioneer Saloon and serves delectable American favorites like burgers, sandwiches, and BBQ. The Pioneer Saloon is a must-see site whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or just seeking for a distinctive pit stop on your trip to Vegas.
6. Route 66 Attractions
On your road trip to Las Vegas, are you looking for unusual and thrilling attractions? Route 66 is the only place to look! Your journey will be made unique by the quirky stops, historical sites, and natural beauties that line this famous highway. There is something for everyone along Route 66, from the largest catsup bottle in the world in Collinsville, Illinois, to the Petrified Forest National Park in northeastern Arizona. Don’t pass up the chance to spend quality time with your loved ones while learning about a significant period in American history. Set up your schedule for your Route 66 excursion right away, and don’t forget to include these must-see locations!
Quirky Roadside Stops
Looking for some odd and eccentric places to stop on the route to Las Vegas? Look nowhere else! Your trip will be even more enjoyable because to the many unique roadside attractions that are available. There is something for everyone, from the largest thermometer in the world in Baker, California, to the Alien Research Center in Hiko, Nevada. You can spot UFOs and even stop by the Little A’Le’Inn restaurant and gift shop on the Extraterrestrial Highway, which you shouldn’t miss. The Mike O’Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge also provides stunning views of the Colorado River for the more daring. So instead of going straight to Vegas, why not take a detour and check out these odd roadside attractions?
7. Alien Fresh Jerky
Looking for a fun and mouthwatering treat to chew on while driving to Las Vegas? You only need Alien Fresh Jerky! This eccentric jerky shop, which can be found not far from the Extraterrestrial Highway, provides a number of bizarre varieties, such their “Alien Spice” and “Galactic Garlic” signatures. But the experience isn’t just about the flavor; the entertaining packaging with an alien motif and the helpful staff add to how extraordinary it is. So instead of continuing on to Vegas, why not stop by and try some Alien Fresh Jerky? Your palate (and inner alien) will appreciate it!
8. Seven Magic Mountains
Be sure to stop by the Seven Magic Mountains, a remarkable and stunning art piece next to the highway, if you’re traveling from Los Angeles to Las Vegas. These seven vibrant stacks of rocks, which span the desert landscape and tower 30 feet tall, were made by artist Ugo Rondinone. The artwork is supposed to represent the trip both geographically and spiritually from the West Coast to the Rocky Mountains. Take a quick stroll to get a closer look at the installation, and don’t forget to take pictures against the breathtaking desert backdrop. You must stop there on the way to Vegas!
9. World’s Tallest Thermometer
If you’re driving from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, be sure to stop by the World’s Tallest Thermometer in Baker, California. This giant thermometer stands at 134 feet tall and is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in quirky roadside stops. The thermometer was built in 1991 and has been featured in numerous movies and TV shows. It’s also a great spot for a photo opportunity, so be sure to bring your camera. Located just off Interstate 15, the World’s Tallest Thermometer is an easy detour on your way to Sin City. So why not take a break from the drive and check out this unique and impressive landmark?
Scenic Drives
Are you looking for a memorable road trip? On your way to Las Vegas, don’t forget to take one of the beautiful roads! There are numerous places to stop and explore along the road in the Mojave Desert, which offers a singular and stunning landscape. Visit the Hoover Dam, a National Historic Landmark that provides guided tours and breathtaking Colorado River views. Alternately, visit the Seven Magic Mountains, a work of public art that consists of seven eye-catching stacks of stones. For the daring, think about taking a trip through Valley of Fire State Park to see the historic petroglyphs and red sandstone formations. Whatever your interests, the trip to Las Vegas will undoubtedly be a memorable one.
10. Joshua Tree Scenic Byway
On your way to Las Vegas, are you looking for an exceptional and unforgettable experience? Look no further than the scenic byway around Joshua Tree! The Joshua Tree National Park, which gives the byway its name, is traversed by this spectacular route as you travel across the Mojave Desert. This byway is a must-see for any traveler because of its unusual rock formations, intriguing history, and profusion of wildlife. The Joshua Tree Scenic Byway is the ideal stop for anyone who enjoys nature, takes photographs, or just needs a break from the road. So why not make a detour and see the Mojave Desert’s breathtaking scenery for yourself?
11. Mojave National Preserve
Mojave National Preserve, which is situated in Southern California’s desert, is a must-visit place for anybody going to Las Vegas. You’ll be astounded by the Mojave Desert’s vastness as you travel through the picturesque pathways, which are peppered with unusual rock formations and Joshua trees. Visit the Kelso Dunes, the biggest sand dunes in the Mojave Desert, and take a climb up the sand mountains. Don’t miss the Hole-in-the-Wall Visitor Center, a special natural rock formation that acts as a visitor center, or the Keys View, which provides a panoramic view over the Coachella Valley. On your journey to Las Vegas, make sure to stop at Mojave National Preserve, which is renowned for its magnificent landscapes and distinctive geological characteristics.
12. Death Valley National Park
On your route to Las Vegas, you must stop at Death Valley National Park, a natural wonder that is situated in eastern California. It offers a distinctive terrain that is unmatched anyplace else as the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the US. Visit the Ubehebe Crater, a volcanic feature produced by a significant explosion, and investigate the Racetrack Playa, where boulders seem to move erratically across a dry lake bed. Drive through the beautiful badlands of the park and halt at the Stovepipe Wells Sand Dunes for an exhilarating sandboarding adventure. Death Valley National Park is a true wonder that should not be missed, with its intense heat and desolate surroundings.
Culinary Delights
On your journey to Las Vegas, are you looking for a little adventure? Look nowhere else! Along the route, there are many culinary delicacies to discover. From the traditional roadside eateries providing burgers and fries to the distinctive regional specialties that will leave you wanting more. If you’re coming from Los Angeles by car, make sure to have a Double-Double at the renowned In-N-Out Burger. The quaint village of Baker, which has the “World’s Largest Thermometer” and some delectable milkshakes at the Mad Greek Cafe, can be found farther down the road.
Make a pit break in the picturesque town of Barstow before continuing your journey so you can indulge in some delectable BBQ at the Hitching Post Steakhouse. And for a distinctive eating adventure, go to the Calico Ghost Town, where you may eat in a genuine saloon from the 19th century. Therefore, during your journey to Las Vegas, take a break from driving and indulge your taste senses to some unique culinary treats.
13. Mad Greek Cafe
On your journey to Las Vegas, are you looking for a special place to eat? Only the Mad Greek Cafe will do! This unique restaurant, which is situated in the Mojave Desert, offers delectable Greek food with a modern twist. Enjoy classic cuisine with a contemporary twist, such as moussaka, gyros, and spanakopita. The personnel is pleasant, and the décor is colorful, creating a lively and enjoyable ambiance. And if you’re fortunate, you might even see the enigmatic “Mad Greek” himself! So instead of driving through the desert, why not stop over and sample some Greek cuisine? Your palate (and sense of adventure) will be grateful.
14. Peggy Sue’s 50’s Diner
On your journey to Las Vegas, are you looking for a special place to eat? The only place to go is Peggy Sue’s 50’s Diner! This throwback restaurant, which is located in the midst of the Mojave Desert, is a must-visit if you’re craving some traditional American fare. With its retro furnishings, jukebox playing old music, and warm service, this establishment will instantly transport you back to the 1950s.
From burgers and fries to milkshakes and pie, the menu offers all the typical diner fare. Peggy Sue’s, however, also has some pleasant surprises in store, such as their renowned “Peggy Sue’s Special”—a delectable combo of a cheeseburger, fries, and Coke, all served on a silver tray. Try their famous “Peggy Sue’s Sauce” as well; it’s a blend of spices that will leave you craving more.
So why not stop by Peggy Sue’s 50′ and take a vacation from the freeway.
15. In-N-Out Burger Pit Stops
There is a must-stop along the way from Los Angeles to Las Vegas that cannot be missed: In-N-Out Burger! This well-known California burger business, which has several outlets along the way, is the ideal spot to refuel and sate your hunger. In-N-Out Burger offers a number of mouthwatering selections, including their renowned Double-Double and Animal Style fries, and is known for their straightforward menu and premium ingredients. A trip to In-N-Out Burger is a must-have experience for anyone visiting or living in California, local or otherwise. Therefore, remember to include In-N-Out Burger to your list of things to see and do along the route the next time you’re traveling to Vegas!
Hidden Gems
On your road trip to Las Vegas, are you looking for unusual and off-the-beaten-path attractions? Consider going to the bright and unusual art installation known as Seven Magic Mountains, which is located in the Nevada desert. Alternatively, visit the Extraterrestrial Highway, a road noted for frequent UFO encounters and attractions with an extraterrestrial theme. Visit the Valley of Fire State Park where you may sleep under the stars and stroll amid magnificent red rock formations for a dose of nature’s splendor. Your journey to Vegas will be an adventure you’ll never forget thanks to these hidden gems.
16. Techatticup Mine
A fascinating historical location called Techatticup Mine is only 20 miles southeast of Las Vegas. Visitors can get a rare peek into Nevada’s lengthy mining history by visiting this ancient gold mine. The name of the mine, Techatticup, comes from a Native American term meaning “rock that falls,” alluding to the mine’s setting in a picturesque canyon surrounded by spectacular red rock formations.
Consider stopping at Techatticup Mine for an exciting adventure as you travel to Las Vegas. A guided tour of the mine is available and includes a stop at the original mine shaft as well as an opportunity to explore the subterranean tunnels. Your expert guide will tell you tales about the mine’s past, including how it got started in the 19th century and how important it was to Nevada’s mining industry, as you travel.
Techatticup Mine offers a number of other activities, such as a zip line tour and gold panning, in addition to the mine tour. Even better, you can take any gold you discover home when you pan for it.
17. Zzyzx Road Desert Oasis
The Zzyzx Road Desert Oasis is a must-see destination for anyone wishing to take a break from the journey and take in the splendor of the Mojave Desert. It is situated on the route to Las Vegas. With its luscious vegetation and glittering spring-fed pond, this gorgeous sanctuary provides a singular and serene respite from the rush and bustle of the city. Visitors can unwind in the shade and take in the spectacular views of the surrounding desert scenery while taking leisurely strolls along the scenic pathways. Zzyzx Road Desert Oasis is a hidden gem in Las Vegas that shouldn’t be overlooked due to its rich history and natural beauty.
18. Rhyolite Ghost Town
Anyone going to Las Vegas really must visit the Rhyolite Ghost Town, which is close to Beatty, Nevada. A remnant of the early 20th century, this abandoned mining town’s deteriorating structures and rusted equipment bear witness to a once-vibrant neighborhood. In order to get a sense of what life was like for those who formerly lived and worked in this town, visitors can tour the remnants of the general store, school, and dwellings. For those wishing to take a break from the road to Las Vegas, the town makes for an interesting halt thanks to its distinctive history and beautiful surroundings. Rhyolite Ghost Town is a fantastic complement to any road trip itinerary given its close proximity to the Extraterrestrial Highway and the enigmatic Area 51.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Are you arranging a family road trip to Las Vegas? Along the journey, there are many family-friendly activities that will excite both children and adults. Consider making a pit stop at the Hoover Dam, a National Historic Landmark with guided tours and breathtaking Colorado River views. Visit the Valley of Fire State Park for some outdoor entertainment where you may discover historic petroglyphs and have a picnic beneath the red sandstone formations. Visit the Extraterrestrial Highway (Highway 375), which winds through the heart of the Nevada desert and provides a window into the mysteries of the cosmos, if you’re seeking for a one-of-a-kind adventure. Whatever you decide, your family will undoubtedly have a special journey to Las Vegas.
19. Bonnie Springs Ranch
On the way to Las Vegas, Bonnie Springs Ranch is a must-stop destination because it offers a distinctive fusion of natural beauty and Old West charm. This 640-acre property, which is 20 miles north of the famed Strip, is home to a gorgeous red rock canyon, rich flora, and a variety of species. Horseback riding tours of the ranch are available, as are lovely hikes and picnics in the shade. The ranch also has a petting zoo, an Old West town model, and a restaurant serving delectable BBQ and cowboy fare. Bonnie Springs is a fantastic option whether you enjoy the outdoors, are interested in history, or just want to get away from the neon lights of Vegas.
20. Springs Preserve
The Springs Preserve, a 180-acre cultural and educational complex with museum exhibits, hiking paths, and a butterfly habitat, is only a few miles from the Las Vegas Strip. Explore the distinctive environment of the preserve, which contains a number of springs that have been running continuously for thousands of years. The preserve also provides a range of educational activities and programs, such as guided tours and hands-on exhibitions. The Springs Preserve is a must-see sight on your route to Las Vegas, whether you’re a fan of nature, a history nerd, or you’re just seeking for a break from the flash and glam of the Strip.