When people think of Nevada, the Las Vegas Strip is often the first thing that comes to mind. From famous resorts like The Mirage and Mandalay Bay, to the Bellagio fountain and Paris's replica of the Eiffel Tower, Sin City is loaded with some of the most alluring tourist destinations in all of the United States.
But even though folks from around the world travel all the way to North America just to stay in posh resorts like Venetian and the Aria, there's a load more of Las Vegas Attractions to experience off the Strip. Whether you're looking for an alternative to riding New York-New York's rollercoaster for the umpteenth time, or some family-friendly sightseeing in everyone's favorite Southwest city, we hope the following guide makes your next Vegas trip a blast!
10 Top Things to Do in Las Vegas Off of the Strip
1. High Roller Observation Wheel
We'll start with this attraction because it's only a short walk from Strip casinos like the Flamingo and Caesar's Palace. The High Roller is essentially a giant Ferris wheel with enclosed cars that gives riders an amazing view of the city. You can find it near the endpoint of the LINQ's Zipline.
2. Fremont Street Experience
Before the Strip gained traction, Fremont Street was the most famous drag in the entire state. Located in downtown Las Vegas, Freemont is well known for its iconic neon signs and classic casinos like the Golden Nugget. In addition to fun attractions such as guided tours, light shows, and a zipline that carries riders over the street, visitors can also look forward to year round live music and free concerts. If you're looking for some unique shopping spots, head on over to Container Park between 7th and 8th Street.
3. The Springs Preserve
Just above 5 minutes from the Strip, you'll find this strange oasis. The Springs Preserve is loaded with various exhibits, including everything from a butterfly habitat to a life size replica of early Las Vegas. All other things being equal, this is the sort of place where kids and parents can meet halfway.
4. The Hoover Dam
https://www.instagram.com/p/B4CzC5pgtqZ/
A little southeast of Vegas past the semi-suburban cities of Henderson and Boulder City, you'll encounter one of America's most amazing works of construction. The dam was built during the Great Depression and still stands strong today.
It's a dam fine sight, believe us.
5. Lake Mead National Recreation Area
RELATED: North America's Lowest Point Sits at Death Valley National Park
Drive just a little further past the Hoover Dam and you'll find what we like to think of as the fully flexed bicep of the Colorado River. Lake Mead offers a wide range of outdoor and water recreation, from camping, hunting, and hiking, to boating, swimming, and fishing.
6. Ethel M. Chocolate Factory and & Cactus Gardens
Chocolate and cactuses all in one spot? Someone poke me with a cactus spine, because I must be dreaming! While most chocolate lovers are familiar with the factory, we still surprise a lot of them with the fact that the site also hosts the largest botanical garden in Nevada.
7. Red Rock Canyon
West of Las Vegas past the suburb of Summerlin, you'll find this breathtaking national park and conservation area. Given the park's proximity to Vegas and the convenient loop road that circles through it, Red Rock Canyon makes a great destination for casual outdoor day trips.
8. Museums
https://www.instagram.com/p/CG-gHWtFqDx/
There are more museums off Strip in Las Vegas than you can count on both hands. Talking about them would get boring pretty fast. Instead, we'll list those we consider the worthiest, and let you sort it out from there!
- National Atomic Testing Museum
- The Mob Museum
- Zak Bagans' The Haunted Museum
- The Neon Museum
- The Pinball Hall of Fame
- Nevada State Museum
- Origen Museum
9. Valley of Fire State Park
If you've got the time and desire for an hour drive, consider heading northeast to experience one of Nevada's most amazing state park. This majestic recreational area has quite a few biking and hiking trails of varying difficulties, not to mention other worthwhile attractions. Just remember to bring plenty of water and sunscreen!
10. Mount Charleston
If you want to get high, we suggest sticking to the natural stuff. Mount Charleston is only a 45 minute drive from the Strip and is nearly 12,000 ft. at its peak. As part of the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area, it has a lot of modern conveniences and facilities for visitors to enjoy.
Bonus Suggestion: Speed Vegas
Since this is Las Vegas we're talking about, it seemed like eleven would be a better number to finish with. (Those who play craps will probably appreciate this magic number more than black jack and slot machine fans).
Located south of the city off I-15, Speed Vegas lets you pay a small fee to drive Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and other dream cars on the safety of their own track.
Oh yeah, they also have a tank you can try out...
What's your favorite thing to do off-Strip in Las Vegas? Let everyone know what they can't miss on our Wide Open Roads Facebook!
