Las Vegas is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the United States, but there is a lot more to this region than just bright lights and big winnings. If you have a little more time to spend in the Vegas area, consider taking a mini road trip to a nearby area that’s within a few hours away to experience the exciting surrounding cities and natural areas. These weekend getaways from Las Vegas are top picks for locals who live in the area and also travelers who want to spend more time out west.
Sedona, Arizona
In about 4.5 hours, you can get to Sedona, Arizona from Las Vegas and treat yourself to the wellness weekend you’ve been craving. Not only does the Sedona area have countless hiking opportunities through the iconic red rock formations, but it is also home to many spa resorts, crystal shops, and vortex tours to help you tap into your inner energy. Art lovers also enjoy all the galleries and art shows here. You can camp in the Sedona area for an outdoorsy and budget-friendly weekend or splurge on one of the many resort properties that offer health programs and long lists of amenities.
Lake Havasu, Arizona
It’s fun to take a weekend trip to Lake Havasu from Vegas to spend some quality time on the water. This weekend destination is only about 2.5 hours from Vegas, making it an easy trip that you can do even if you don’t have a ton of time. On the lake, popular activities are boating and fishing. Lake Havasu separates Arizona and California and is also a fun place to come for golfing, kayaking, and taking a houseboat out on the water.
Zion National Park, Utah
The very popular and wonderfully scenic Zion National Park is only about two and a half hours from Las Vegas as well. You can travel to the town of Springdale, Utah just outside the park to stay in the area while you hike the national park’s trails and take countless photographs of the wonders that surround you. Rock climbing and canyoneering are popular activities in the Zion region, with numerous local guide services that cater to various skill levels. Be mindful though that this is a very busy park with mandatory shuttle service during peak times of the year to reduce traffic and parking issues. For a more serene experience, bundle up and plan your trip to Zion in the winter.
Page, Arizona
The small town of Page, Arizona is a little over four hours from Las Vegas and offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the southwest. Plan to take this weekend trip if you need a break from the busyness of city life and to reconnect with yourself and the outdoors. Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend are must-see natural destinations on your weekend road trip to Page. The Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is a wonderful place to take out a kayak to experience Lake Powell.
Death Valley, California
In under 2.5 hours, you can make the drive from Las Vegas to Death Valley National Park for a weekend getaway that will blow your mind. This is a place of extremes and otherworldly landscapes, as well as ghost towns and abandoned gold mines. There are campgrounds to stay at in Death Valley to make the most out of your weekend trip.
St. George, Utah
If you don’t want to drive very far but still enjoy a total getaway experience, plan a weekend trip to St. George, Utah. This destination is less than two hours from Vegas and famous for its red rock landscapes, historic downtown, golf courses, and family-friendly atmosphere. While you’re here for the weekend, check out the Kayenta Art Village, Little Black Mountain Petroglyph Site, and St. George Children’s Museum.
Mojave National Preserve, California
Meanwhile, the Mojave National Preserve is another great local getaway idea because it’s only about an hour south of Las Vegas. This rugged and remote destination will really get you off the grid and out into the desert for some peace and solitude. Camping is available in the park at the Hole-in-the-Wall Campground and the Mid Hills Campground. These are great ways to fully experience the sand dunes, cinder cone volcanoes, Joshua trees, and blooming wildflowers in the spring. This is a pet-friendly park, but just make sure to keep your pet cool on hot days because the desert heat can be intense.
Flagstaff, Arizona
The college town of Flagstaff is less than four hours from Las Vegas and makes a fun weekend trip. Here, you can get away from the desert landscapes for a bit and see tall pine trees and lush green forests. It’s a wonderful place to go for a mountain hike and get some fresh air in the outdoors. There are lots of historical attractions and Native pueblo sites in the Flagstaff area where you can learn about local culture. In the winter, you can even go skiing here. Flagstaff also has a great downtown area with lots of local breweries and a diverse array of restaurants.
Los Angeles, California
Within about four hours, you can also get from Las Vegas to Los Angeles for an exciting weekend away. In Los Angeles, you can check out the museums, explore the amazing food scene, or head to the nearby beaches for a total change of pace. This is also a fun place to embrace your love for movies and artistic culture with a film studio tour and walk down the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Another epic natural area that is definitely feasible on a weekend trip from Las Vegas is Grand Canyon National Park. This favorite national park is a little over four hours from Las Vegas and features some of the most scenic hikes you’ll find anywhere in the world. Helicopter tours are popular here, and there are various options for lodging, depending on if you’re looking for a hotel experience with amenities or to get back to nature in a tent or RV.
