Nobody is in the dark about the sweet and shiny night life of Las Vegas – but did you know this gambling hotspot is also a beacon for adventure? The strip could be your starting point for the kind of day trip destinations that leave social media followers jealous and friends begging for a ride.
Sprawling landscapes, ghost towns and beautiful beaches are just the tip of the canyon and they’re right around the corner! There’s no time to waste when the country’s best gems and biggest treasures are just up the bend – nothing compares to a picturesque jackpot that leaves a traveler feeling satisfied and full of life at the end of the day.
Big Bend – For the Outdoor Enthusiast
Located about five miles south of Laughlin, Big Bend of the Colorado River State Recreation Area is about an hour and a half ride from the bright lights of Vegas and it’s beaming with two miles of sandy shoreline along Nevada’s southern tip. If you love the great outdoors, you hit it big here – adventurers can get their fill camping, picnicking, fishing, boating, kayaking, hiking, swimming and yes, even bird watching!
The state park is home to a variety of beautiful birds, like mallards, geese, herons, hawks, quail, hummingbirds, doves, owls and geese. Whether you are in the mood for excitement or just feel like chilling out in the cool Colorado river – there’s plenty for your soul to see at Big Bend.
Clark County – For the History Buff
Henderson, NV is just a stone’s throw away from Vegas and visitors of the Clark County Heritage Museum have the chance to take a walk through history. The historic structures on Heritage Street have been restored to different time periods, so it’s truly a place where you can unwind and rewind as you take a look at how people lived through different moments in the past.
From there, history buffs who are still looking to get their fill for Nevada knowledge could head northeast to Overton to check out the historic Lost City Museum. Visitors can learn about the earliest residents of the state while observing the tools, pottery and other artifacts that tell an ancient, cultural tale.
Dig This – For the Big Kid
Dig This Las Vegas is the world’s heavy equipment playground and it’s only a 10-15-minute ride from any hotel on the strip. Are you the type of fun-loving grown up who’s been dying to get back in the sandbox? Maybe you need to blow off some steam or dig up some confidence.
At Dig This, you have the chance to bulldoze and excavate with the best of them. You’ll learn how to safely operate heavy machinery like the pros, and you don’t have to break a sweat while you’re there. All of the machines at Dig This are climate controlled. No driving experience is needed, but close-toed shoes are a requirement. They offer individual experiences, group sessions and kid digs.
Nelson’s Landing – For the Thrill-Seeker
If you’re on the strip and you feel like getting back to nature, think about hitting the road toward Nelson’s Landing, which sits 25 miles outside of Boulder City, Nevada. Those seeking an adrenaline rush can climb up to the highest cliff and take a 50-foot leap into the Colorado River reservoir, Lake Mohave. Those of us who aren’t huge fans of heights can still get our own thrills on by leaping from the smaller cliffs. Hey, we’ll work our way up, right?
It’s family friendly, barbecuing fun, with a great atmosphere for kayaking, fishing or simply catching a tan. Just keep in mind that glass and alcohol are prohibited on the beach – nobody needs liquid confidence at a place like this, anyway. Take in the beauty of the scenery and let your inner thrill seeker soar!
Red Rock Canyon – For the Soul Searcher
Red Rock Canyon is Nevada’s first National Conservation area and the beautiful sight sits just a short drive from the strip (about 17 miles west). The 13-mile scenic drive through Red Rock’s picturesque backdrop will make you feel like you’re cruising through a timeless art form. Taking a scenic drive isn’t the only way to transport yourself through one of nature’s greatest accomplishments, though.
Why not hop on a road or mountain bike to feel the crisp mountain air blowing on your skin? There’s miles of hiking trails, plus great spots for rock climbing, horseback riding, picnicking and camping. You can also simply observe the plants and wildlife that make this place a spectacular gem for your bucket list. Not to mention, the indoor and outdoor exhibits offer a great platform for learning about the area.
You don’t have to be a tourist to tour the awesome day trip destinations that are wowing people from all over the world. Let Subaru Sunday Drives inspire your own adventure – whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, thrill-seeker, big kid or soul searcher – there’s something for everyone. So get out there, and get driving!
