Hotels.com asked me to share some of my favorite things to do in Las Vegas so I’m happy to share these cool gems. Las Vegas may be known as the city of lights but it’s so much more than just the dazzling strip. Many may refer to the city as a gambler’s paradise, its nightlife, but did you know that there are some incredible places to visit Las Vegas off the strip? So if you’re heading this way and looking for things to do in Las Vegas off The Strip keep reading.
As travel today remains uncertain, please keep your safety and the safety of others in mind at all times. If you are comfortable with traveling at this time, please travel responsibly and within regulation as any travel is at your own risk.
If you do decide to travel at this time, here are some recommendations:
- Wear a face mask.
- Bring hand sanitizer and wash your hands on a regular basis.
- Check official websites before your trip for the latest updates on policies, closures, and status of local businesses.
- Book a hotel with free cancellation in case you need to change your plans at the last minute.
Things to Do in Las Vegas Off The Strip
Just a couple of miles off Las Vegas Boulevard, more commonly referred to as the Las Vegas Strip or “The Strip,” are some great gems to visit.
Valley of Fire State Park State Parks
Valley of Fire is one of the coolest state parks in Nevada! Between the fiery red Aztec sandstones, the wavy-lined rock formations, and petroglyphs dating back over 2,000 years, this park is unlike anything else. The park is under an hour’s drive away from Las Vegas making it an easy day trip. You can also opt to camp the night here!
There are tons of hikes, viewpoints, and more. It’s open daily from sunrise to sunset. Admission is $10.00 per vehicle, and camping is $20.00 per night + $10.00 for sites with utility hookups.
Seven Magic Mountains
Seven Magic Mountains is a colorful outdoor art installation located in Sloan, Nevada, about 25-minutes south of Las Vegas. It’s open to the public and completely free. There are signs that lead to the parking lot and a short trail you’ll walk to get to the art piece. You can’t miss it from Las Vegas Boulevard.
Neon Museum
The Neon Museum in Las Vegas is full of old Vegas nostalgia. There are signs that date back as far as the 1930s. It’s like taking a trip through vintage Vegas! You’ll want to reserve your tickets online in advance. General tickets sell out quickly and it only allows you a visit for an hour. So if you want to see the sign lit then book for when it gets dark. There are also options for guided tours and an optional light show.
Hoover Dam
Visiting a dam might not seem exciting until you actually see how MASSIVE the Hoover Dam is. It’s 726 feet tall and holds approximately 10 trillion gallons of water. The Hoover Dam is located on the border of Arizona. Half the year you can be in two time zones at the same time.
How far is the Hoover Dam from Las Vegas? It’s only a 45-minute drive!
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Red Rock Canyon only 17 miles from the Las Vegas Strip and the perfect place to get away for a hike, take a scenic drive, or go rock climbing! There are tons of trails, petroglyphs, and it’s great for photography. You’ll need a reservation in advance for timed entry. You can use your America The Beautiful National Parks annual pass if you have one but you still need a reservation.
Area15
One of the newer venues in Las Vegas is Area15. The property is huge and is quickly expanding. It’s an experiential entertainment district that offers live events, immersive art installations, and more. It’s free to enter the complex and you can purchase tickets to the tenant experiences, rides, and activations.
photos courtesy of Area15
Downtown Las Vegas
Downtown LAs Vegas is the historic center of the city. Fremont Street is where Las Vegas began, it was the birth of the very first casinos in the city. Although the more well-known casinos are located on The Strip, Fremont Street is still a popular place to gamble.
Be sure to visit the Arts District where you’ll find a mix of art galleries, stores, restaurants, and more. And if you’re in town on the first Friday of the month check out their monthly First Friday Artwalk.
Downtown Las Vegas has a different, more laidback vibe, and tends to be more affordable than The Strip.
Where to Stay in Las Vegas
If you’re looking for where to stay in Las Vegas there are plenty of hotels off The Strip in Las Vegas. Downtown Las Vegas is a great option if you want to be close to a variety of restaurants, bars, and activities. Or if you prefer to be in the middle of all the action and centrally located opt to stay on the strip.
Enjoy your trip to Las Vegas and have fun off The Strip!
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