Las Vegas attracted 42.1 million visitors in 2018, and not all of them came to game. In fact, the area has much to offer tourists and residents alike outside of the Strip. The area’s lushness drew farmers and merchants alike in the 19th century, and its attractions and natural beauty continue to bring visitors to the valley today.
To get started, let’s take a look at five places to visit near Las Vegas by car. Each destination is only a two-hour car drive (or less!) away.
Mesquite
Why Visit
If you love the outdoors, Mesquite should be at the top of your list of places to visit near Las Vegas by car.
What to do
A haven for adventurers, Mesquite draws visitors for its hiking paths, mountain biking trails, ATV and nature tours, skydiving opportunities, and even its camel safaris! Make a day trip to enjoy the region’s well-groomed golf courses or enjoy an overnight stay at the CasaBlanca Golf Club resort and spa.
Distance from Las Vegas: 80 miles (1 hr 15 min)
Best Time to Visit: Fall and spring for pleasant weather.
Looking for a road trip? Check out our guide on Road Tripping From Las Vegas to Tahoe.
Primm-Jean-Good Springs
Why Visit
Thrill-seekers and culture aficionados alike should add Primm-Jean-Good Springs to their itinerary.
What to do
While Primm has claimed its place on the map for its fun and family-friendly Desperado roller coaster, Good Springs brims with history and gives a glimpse of what turn-of-the-century life looked like in Nevada. Stop at Jean Lake or Ivanpah Lake to marvel at the area’s astounding beauty, or swing by the fashion outlets or the creative Seven Magic Mountains art installation.
Distance from Las Vegas: 40 miles (45 min)
Best Time to Visit: Year-round.
Henderson
Why Visit
Just outside the Strip, Henderson offers attractions for families and couples looking to get away together.
What to do
While the city boasts numerous attractions, some favorites include the opulent hotel and retail mecca Lake Las Vegas, the delectable Ethel M Chocolates Factory, and specialty shopping at the Artisan Booze District. For romantics, Henderson offers a variety of accommodations; for history lovers, the city offers the Clark County Museum and the Veterans Memorial Wall.
Distance from Las Vegas: 16 miles (25 min)
Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for outdoor activities.
Boulder City
Why Visit
Both history buffs and families revel in historic Boulder City, which was built to house Hoover Dam workers.
What to do
With a ban on gambling within its limits, the city finds many other ways to have fun. With a charming downtown that maintains Boulder City’s unique feel, excursions on the Black Canyon River, the Nevada State Railroad Museum, helicopter and airline tours, and even the Hoover Dam itself, the city has something for everyone.
Distance from Las Vegas: 27 miles (35 min)
Best Time to Visit: Spring and early summer for dam tours and river activities.
Laughlin
Why Visit
For a water-centric escape, Laughlin is one of the best places to visit near Las Vegas by car.
What to do
Looking for water fun? Look to Laughlin, a town on the Colorado River offering endless aquatic entertainment. Although the area offers its share of shopping opportunities and showcases the region’s history at the Colorado River Museum, visitors mainly come for Laughlin’s jet boat tours, river cruises, and jet ski adventures.
Distance from Las Vegas: 97 miles (1 hour 45 min)
Best Time to Visit: Summer for water sports; winter for mild temperatures and scenic views.
Compare These Top Places to Visit Near Las Vegas by Car
All within 100 miles of Las Vegas, these cities deserve to be part of your next Nevada vacation. For entertainment outside of the casino, these five places and others surrounding Las Vegas can offer plenty of ways to get the most out of the Las Vegas territory.
| Destination | Distance from Las Vegas | Activities | Best Time to Visit |
| Mesquite | 80 miles | Hiking, biking, golf, spa | Fall, Spring |
| Primm/Jean/Goodsprings | 40 miles | Roller coasters, history, art installations | Year-round |
| Henderson | 16 miles | Chocolates, museums, Lake Las Vegas | Spring, Fall |
| Boulder City | 27 miles | Hoover Dam tours, river trips, museums | Spring, Early Summer |
| Laughlin | 97 miles | Jet boating, river cruises, shopping | Summer, Winter |
Frequently Asked Questions
What national parks can you visit from Las Vegas by car?
Las Vegas is a great starting point for visiting several national parks by car. Popular options include Death Valley National Park (approximately 2 hours away), Zion National Park in Utah (about 2.5 hours away), and the Grand Canyon’s West Rim (around 2 hours away). Each offers stunning landscapes perfect for hiking, sightseeing, and photography.
What are the best day trips near Las Vegas?
Some of the best day trips near Las Vegas include Valley of Fire State Park, Hoover Dam and Boulder City, Red Rock Canyon, and Lake Mead. These destinations are within an hour’s drive and offer a variety of outdoor activities, scenic views, and historical attractions perfect for a quick escape from the city.