Las Vegas is an incredible city. It has so much to offer to keep you busy for several days (and nights) right on The Strip itself or even without setting foot in a casino.
But if you’re planning to do a bit of a longer stay, or if you’re a local looking for a getaway, there are so many great places to visit within a short distance from Vegas. In this post you’ll find 18 epic weekend getaways from Las Vegas.
Road trips from Vegas will give you beautiful views of the American landscape as you travel to your destination. It’s also possible to stop at a number of scenic places along the way there – or on your way back to Vegas.
Whether you’re up for a scenic road trip or a quick flight, weekend trips from Las Vegas should definitely be on your itinerary.
Sure, Vegas has fun stuff to do but we all need some vacation time every so often. Here are 18 ideas for your get-out-of-Vegas weekend fun.
In This Article:
National Parks Near Las Vegas
If you’re looking for outdoor adventure and spectacular scenery then you’ll want to consider these five extraordinary national parks near Las Vegas – all within 2 – 5 hour drive.
Death Valley, California
Death Valley National Park is definitely a must for your California bucket list. With the short drive from Las Vegas of just over two hours, you can make it a day trip from Vegas or stay the night to give yourself more time to experience the wonder of this special place.
Hiking in the area, like the trails to Darwin Falls, and Telescope Peak, or taking scenic drives like the Daylight Pass, have views you will not forget. Just remember that Death Valley is one of the hottest places on earth during the summer months, so save this one for a winter weekend trip.
LEARN MORE: Best National Parks to Visit in Winter
Joshua Tree National Park, California
Nature is at its finest at Joshua Tree National Park and it’s only a three hour drive from Vegas. It’s no wonder why so many people visit this beautiful place each year.
With its stunning views of the landscape and vegetation only the desert climate can provide, you will not be disappointed when you experience all that Joshua Tree has to offer.
Driving to scenic lookouts and hiking the trails you’ll see the unique Joshua Trees along the landscape. Also be sure to check out the cholla cactus garden.
Explore landmarks and hikes on your own, like Barker Dam, Skull Rock, and Hidden Valley Nature Trail, or join one of the talks or hikes hosted by the park’s rangers.
Joshua Tree National Park is a great weekend trip from Vegas for outdoor adventurers
Zion National Park, Utah
Zion National Park is an incredible natural wonder that you have to see to believe and it’s less than three hours from Las Vegas. Towering rock formations, deep caverns, and plant life make it a scene like one in an old western movie.
This beautiful place is a popular destination for millions of visitors a year, so plan ahead to avoid the crowds at popular landmarks like The Narrows. Note that starting April 1, 2022 Angels Landing requires a permit and reservation.
For less busy options check out areas like Taylor Creek Trail and some of the other easy hikes in Zion. A good thing about being so popular is that there are plenty of places to eat and a variety of accommodations in and around Zion.
Bryce Canyon Utah
Ready for one of the most amazing places to see in Utah? Bryce Canyon National Park is a place like no other with red rock hoodoos creating other-worldly views, absolutely stunning at sunset! All within a four hour drive from Las Vegas.
Hike among the magical spire formations on the hiking trails in Bryce Canyon including Queen’s Garden Trail, Navajo Loop, and Fairyland Loop.
TIP: You can visit Zion and Bryce in one road trip – just head south on US-89 after you leave Bryce, and you’ll get to Zion in about an hour. Plan on a 3 – 4 day road trip to see both Bryce and Zion.
LEARN MORE: 15 National Parks and Monuments in Utah
Take one of the most scenic road trips from Las Vegas to Bryce National Park in Utah
Grand Canyon, Arizona
A US bucket list must! We all have the Grand Canyon on our “things I have to see during my lifetime” list.
And Las Vegas is less than five hours away from the Grand Canyon South Rim. Yes, it’s true! So, if you’re headed to Vegas for more than just a couple of days, you should definitely consider making a getaway to experience the majesty of mother nature. You’ll be happy you did.
Park in the Grand Canyon Village then walk a portion of the Rim Trail for spectacular views of the Grand Canyon and visit historic buildings such as Kolb Studio, Bright Angel Lodge, El Tovar Hotel, and Hopi House.
Enjoy dining at one of the rustic lodges in the park after hiking a portion of Bright Angel Trail (to the first rest house is 1.5 miles) and back up to the rim. Marvel at the mesmerizing views.
Best Road Trips from Las Vegas
Part of the appeal of a getaway is experiencing the beauty of the landscape during the drive. There are several places not too far from Las Vegas where the destination is just as glorious as the road trip that gets you there.
The following places are drives that will take less than 5 hours (think 2.5 – 4.5 hours), but you’ll be happy you covered those miles.
Lake Havasu, Arizona
Need a getaway from your getaway? Definitely check out Lake Havasu. Packed with great places to eat, drink and lay your head at night, it’s only 2.5 hours from Las Vegas.
Water sports reign at the lake but the surrounding area has great trails for hiking and biking like SARA Park.
One thing you have to do while at Lake Havasu is to check out London Bridge. Yes, that London Bridge! It was brought over from England and reassembled across Lake Havasu. Cool, right?
Flagstaff, Arizona
Escape to Flagstaff for a weekend of hiking in the pine forests and take in the coffee culture vibe with an abundance of unique local cafes – in less than 4 hours from Vegas.
With an elevation of around 7,000 feet this Northern Arizona college town experiences four distinct seasons which is fairly unique in Arizona.
Expect snow in winter (and skiing), comfortable summers, and most pleasant spring and fall weather. With a long list of things to do in Flagstaff you’ll want to try it out in every season.
For day trip options venture out on historic Route 66 to Winslow Arizona (sound familiar?…standing on the corner in Winslow Arizona) and the spectacular Petrified Forest National Park. Or the Grand Canyon!
Learn about all the best day trips from Flagstaff and you’ll want to plan a one week vacation to this amazing Arizona town.
LEARN MORE: Indian Ruins Near Flagstaff
Get your kicks on Route 66 in Winslow Arizona – a short drive from Flagstaff and a fun stop on the way to Petrified Forest
Mojave National Preserve, California
The Mojave National Preserve is a must-do experience. Hike the Rings Loop Trail to climb between towering rock formations or simply put your feet in the sand at Kelso Dunes.
The Mojave Preserve is something you’ll remember for a lifetime. As it’s less than three hours from Las Vegas, there’s no better reason to visit. Taking a longer road trip to California? Make a stop at Mojave on your way – you’ll be glad you did.
Sedona, Arizona
If you’re looking to get re-centered, head to Sedona (about 4.5 hours drive from Las Vegas). Nestled in the beautiful desert oasis is a magnificent city that is teeming with different ways for you to relax, unwind, and find your center.
Resorts and spas throughout the area are ready to help with massages, yoga, pools, and luxurious spaces to spend the night. The natural landscape like the Sedona Vortexes provide opportunities for spiritual revival that’s soothing for your soul and easy on your wallet.
Explore the best free things to do in Sedona now.
LEARN MORE: Hiking Oak Creek Trail Sedona
Cool off while hiking the Oak Creek Canyon – one of the best hikes near Sedona Arizona
Cedar City Utah
Budget travelers will appreciate this location compared to staying in other super popular places in Utah, like Bryce and Zion. Cedar City is often WAY cheaper than staying in or near Zion and Bryce and it’s less than three hours from Las Vegas.
Enjoy easy and scenic drives from Cedar City to both Bryce and Zion. Bonus, you are less than 30 minutes away from Kolob Canyons in Zion (way less crowded!) and there are so many amazing things to do near Cedar City. Hiking and biking trails in town make it a great family vacation spot.
If you can swing it make this a 7-day road trip from Vegas to take in all the highlights like Bryce, Zion, Cedar Breaks, and Kanarraville Falls (slot canyon) in an epic Vegas getaway.
Prescott Arizona
Nestled in the ponderosa pine forests of central Arizona you will find the delightful city of Prescott – about 4 hours from Las Vegas.
While cities like Phoenix, Sedona, and Tucson get a lot more attention Prescott will wow you with it’s history and some pretty amazing lakes plus hiking trails around town and in the Prescott National Forest.
Visit history museums and ancient ruins nearby or go kayaking or paddle boarding at one the many lakes around Prescott. Hike around Watson Lake and then enjoy a night on the town at Whiskey Row in historical downtown Prescott.
Explore the best things to do in Prescott now.
Watson Lake is a must-see in Prescott – for awesome hiking, fishing, kayaking, or boating
Page, Arizona
Page Arizona is a fabulous destination if you’re looking for anything from water sports to nature hikes. At Lake Powell and the surrounding Glen Canyon National Recreation area, you can cool off in the water by kayaking, waterskiing, or simply taking a dip.
You definitely must see the natural wonders of both Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon to experience what mother nature has created. Located about 4.5 hours from Las Vegas, Page has plenty of places to stay so why not make a long weekend trip out of it?
On your two-day trip to Page AZ be sure to take a tour of Antelope Canyon – a top Arizona bucket list destination
Drive or Fly Weekend Getaways from Vegas
The Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas makes weekend getaways super easy and convenient. Nearby major cities are just a hop, skip and jump away with frequent flights taking off each day. With airlines competing for customers with super low fares, it’s a no brainer to book a flight and be off.
Los Angeles, California
LA needs no introduction. This home of Hollywood is known across the globe for its wonder and magic.
So, why not hop on over to LA for the weekend? Direct flights are frequent and pretty cheap to get there and back. The biggest hassle might be waiting to board but that’s about it.
Just grab your carry-on and you’re ready to take off.
Driving will get you there in just about four hours, which is not that bad considering when you’re there you’ll have your wheels to get around town.
LEARN MORE: LA to San Francisco West Coast Road Trip
Phoenix, Arizona
Looking for a change of pace for a day or two? Consider a weekend getaway to Phoenix.
The desert climate makes the city a perfect place to visit any time of year. There’s a ton to do in Phoenix in terms of outdoor activities like hiking, hot air ballooning, and playing a few holes at world renowned golf courses.
You won’t be disappointed by the selection of restaurants, bars or museums either. Phoenix has just about anything you’d desire for a perfect weekend away.
A quick flight will get you there in an hour or by car it’s less than five hours away.
If you have more time you can make it a one week driving vacation to Phoenix and check out all the best road trip stops on your way back from Phoenix to Vegas.
LEARN MORE: Hike the Wave Cave Superstition Mountains Arizona
Santa Barbara California
Fly or drive (5 hours 45 minutes from Vegas) to one of the prettiest coastal towns in California – featuring red-tiled rooftops and white stucco buildings – Santa Barbara is gorgeous!
From downtown you can walk the Shoreline Park and to Ledbetter Beach, or bicycle to the Butterfly Beach – perfect for sunset viewing.
Take a tour of Mission Santa Barbara or walk the gardens in Santa Barbara then enjoy an evening of shopping and dining on State Street.
Go explore the tide pools at Hendry’s Beach and walk for miles listening to the soothing ocean waves and feeling the sand between your toes. You’ll love Santa Barbara!
Explore all the best things to do in Santa Barbara now.
Where to stay in Santa Barbara: La Playa Inn Santa Barbara is a short walk to the beach and Stearns Wharf, read reviews and see photos now.
Beautiful Santa Barbara is a superb vacation spot on the California coast
San Diego, California
Have a craving for some Mexi-Cali seafood? Why not head over to San Diego for the weekend?!
Flights from Las Vegas to San Diego make it super easy to get away for the weekend – with planes taking off several times a day, prices that are typically pretty low, and an inflight time that is only about an hour, it’d be silly not to go!
The drive isn’t a big deal either – it’s only five hours. No matter what way you choose to get to San Diego from Las Vegas, you’ll soon be enjoying the Pacific breeze with your toes in the sand. Priceless!
LEARN MORE: 12 Epic Day Trips from San Diego
Palm Springs California
How about a relaxing weekend vibe in the desert oasis of Palm Springs? Hop a short flight or hit the road and be there in about 4.5 hours.
Go hiking in the palm lined canyons then relax in the spa, peruse the thrift shops, or check out the Palm Springs Art Museum. Enjoy the Palm Springs nightlife and dance the night away or have a romantic dinner at Le Vallauris Restaurant.
Want to explore more? Take an awesome day trip from Palm Springs to the surreal Salton Sea, Joshua Tree National Park, or soar higher on the tramway to Mt San Jacinto State Park.
Plan your trip now (including where to stay and where to eat) with our guide to Palm Springs. Also, check out our list of best Boutique Hotels in Palm Springs.
Fly or drive to Palm Springs California for a long weekend of relaxation and rejuvenation
Carpinteria California
A more affordable option than Santa Barbara is the laid back California beach town of Carpinteria. It’s only 10 miles from Santa Barbara on scenic Highway One so you can easily make an afternoon trip to check it out too.
In Carpinteria you’ll find a wonderful sandy beach to practice your surfing skills or take a surfing lesson, then there’s the amazing hiking trail at Carpinteria Bluffs down to the tide pools.
Carpinteria is the place to relax and slow down to enjoy the best of coastal living. Hop a flight to Santa Barbara or drive 5.5 hours from Vegas to Carpinteria.
Explore all the best things to do in Carpinteria and plan to visit at least a couple of the beautiful beaches around Carpinteria.
Summary
I hope this list of Las Vegas weekend getaway ideas offers you some inspiration for your next trip.
Any of these 18 destinations make an excellent choice for a Las Vegas weekend mini-vacation. Whether you’re looking for spectacular scenery and hiking trails in some of the best national parks in the US, beautiful beach towns, a soothing desert oasis, or stunning red rock landscapes – there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
There’s much to explore near Las Vegas. Happy travels!
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