Best outdoor activities in Las Vegas

Although Las Vegas is renowned for its nightlife, there are plenty of opportunities to venture outside and take in the breathtaking natural scenery that surrounds the city. Just outside of the city, there are a ton of fantastic chances for leisure activities, including kayaking, hiking, and even taking a helicopter trip. Give these can’t-miss activities a shot if you want to take a break from the action while still finding something enjoyable to do in Las Vegas.

If you’re looking for a different way to experience Las Vegas, there are many wonderful opportunities to get outside and explore nature and historical landmarks in the area.

10 Best Outdoor Activities in Las Vegas

Here are some of the Best outdoor activities in Las Vegas:

Hoover Dam

One of the most recognizable structures in the nation, the Hoover Dam, is a designated national historic landmark. Consequently, a trip to Las Vegas wouldn’t be complete without going to the dam. The Hoover Dam was formerly the biggest dam in the world when it was built in 1936.

You may now explore Hoover Dam on foot or go on a helicopter tour to obtain a bird’s eye perspective of the national historic landmark. There are tours available for people interested in learning more about the Hoover Dam, as well as a visitor center on-site with tourist information and a gift shop.

A Las Vegas kayaking trip is one of the greatest ways to see the Hoover Dam from below. Many people choose this option to avoid the summer heat while still enjoying the historic region.

Bryce and Zion National Park

In the southwest of Utah, there are two magnificent national parks, Bryce and Zion. They provide some of the country’s most unusual rock formations, breathtaking views, and a ton of hiking opportunities. Both parks are rich with both plant and animal life. Bryce and Zion are less visited than the Grand Canyon, which is good news if you want to fully disconnect from the outside world. Due to its proximity to Las Vegas, Bryce, and Zion are excellent choices for day trips from the city.

Lake Mead

Despite being a man-made lake, Lake Mead is a terrific area to visit if you want to engage in outdoor activities while touring Las Vegas. Showers, food options, and other facilities are available at Lake Mead, offering a variety of activities like relaxing in the sun, hiking, boating, swimming, and jet skiing. Beaches and picnic areas abound at Lake Mead. The lake has 820 kilometers of shoreline in total.

Valley of Fire and Lake

Another magnificent natural wonder that you can easily spend a day visiting is the Valley of Fire State Park. It is simple to visit Valley of Fire and Lake Mead on the same day because they are both located less than 10 miles apart. The breathtaking red sandstone rock formations that can be found inside Valley of Fire State Park are what give it its name. The oldest state park in Nevada, Valley of Fire, is also one of the top destinations for photographers in the area. This state park has an abundance of wildlife and a variety of challenging hiking paths to explore.

Kayaking & Canoeing in Las Vegas

Kayaking in Las Vegas is one of the most satisfying, motivational, and energizing outdoor activities there is. Blaze and Paddles, which provides kayaking excursions for paddlers of all ages and skill levels, offers a variety of kayaking experiences to accommodate a wide range of interests and demands. Several tour packages are offered. Start with a half-day tour, which includes a shuttle service that conveniently departs from and returns to the Las Vegas Strip and a four-mile journey with stunning Black Canyon views.

Longer trips like the half-day self-guided tour are also available to sign up for and give you the chance to experience Colorado River kayaking at your own speed. Full-day tours are available for more adventurous and skilled kayakers, and there are also specialty tours like twilight outings on the Colorado River that include a riverbank campfire.

Hiking in the Grand Canyon

Hiking in the Grand Canyon is a fantastic option if you’re seeking additional Las Vegas activities that provide a break from the city’s bustle. One of the nation’s most stunning, illustrious, and majestic natural icons is the Grand Canyon. It provides a tranquil and soothing retreat from the city, and tracking its many pathways is sure to get your heart rate up. It takes only a few hours to go from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon. It is simple to get there for a day excursion if you are renting a car; you can drive to the Grand Canyon.

You can also take a bus from Las Vegas to get there. If you’d prefer to view the canyon from above, helicopter trips are also an option. Consider strolling along the Grand Canyon Skywalk, which has a glass floor if you want to see the Grand Canyon on foot in a more distinctive way. If you feel that a single day isn’t enough to fully explore the canyon, you can research the park’s camping alternatives for longer visits.

Boulder City

Another fantastic place to get away from the crowds in Sin City is Boulder City, less than an hour separates Boulder City from Las Vegas. It boasts a lot of charming small-town characters and nice locals. For those who wish to take it a little easier than the fast-paced life of Las Vegas, it offers a refreshing change of pace. In Boulder City, there are also lots of charming cafes and excellent restaurants to try.

The Monster Museum and the Damn Short Film Festival are two more nearby cultural destinations worth a visit. The Monster Museum is open all year long with activities for guests of all ages, but the film festival, which happens only once a year, will need you to schedule your visit around it.

Neon Museum

Next up is the Neon Museum. If you appreciate signs, the Neon Museum Boneyard is a must-visit. This outdoor exhibit displays historic signs from Old Las Vegas. Tickets are around $25 per person, offering a fantastic experience with knowledgeable volunteers.

Fremont Street

Number four is Fremont Street. The Fremont Street Experience is a must-see, taking you back to the charm of old Las Vegas with historic hotels like the Four Queens and Golden Nugget. Modern attractions like ziplining, LED light shows, and various performances make this pedestrian area unforgettable.

Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Number six is the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. The lobby is adorned with beautiful floral displays that change with each season, providing a picturesque setting and an excellent photo spot.

Whether you are looking for a leisurely experience or an active outdoor adventure, Vegas and its surrounding areas have lots of options for spending time outside, enjoying the sun, and having fun, including zip lines and adrenaline-pumping activities such as car crushing, car racing, and dune buggy driving.

FAQ: Best Outdoor Activities in Las Vegas

Here, are common FAQs for the Best outdoor activities in Las Vegas.

Q: What are the best outdoor activities in Las Vegas?

A: Las Vegas offers a variety of outdoor activities. Some popular options include exploring Red Rock Canyon, hiking in the Valley of Fire State Park, taking a scenic helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon, and enjoying water sports on Lake Mead.

Q: Is there good hiking near Las Vegas?

A: Yes, there are several hiking opportunities near Las Vegas. Red Rock Canyon offers numerous trails with stunning desert scenery, and Valley of Fire State Park is known for its unique red rock formations and petroglyphs.

Q: Can I go camping near Las Vegas?

A: Yes, there are camping options near Las Vegas. Red Rock Canyon Campground and Valley of Fire State Park both offer camping facilities. Additionally, there are campgrounds at Lake Mead for those interested in waterside camping.