Las Vegas is probably best-loved for its nightlife scene, but there’s also plenty of other memorable things to do in the area. Whether you’re looking for a break from the clubbing and casinos in town, traveling with family, or simply looking to add a one-of-a-kind experience to your trip, here are 10 adventurous things to do nearby this iconic city.
1. Explore Red Rock Canyon
Located a little over 20 minutes from the Las Vegas strip, Red Rock Canyon was Nevada’s first National Conservation area. This stunning section of land is home to a 13-mile one-way scenic drive, several miles of hiking trails, and ancient petroglyphs. It’s also a popular place for trail rides, such as those offered by Cowboy Trail Rides.
2. Check Out A One Of A Kind Theme Park
Here’s one adults and kids alike will love. Dig This is a one-of-a-kind amusement park that allows visitors the chance to try their hand-operating construction equipment such as backhoes and bulldozers. While parents can look forward to enjoying trying out full-size vehicles, kids don’t have to sit out on the fun either – Dig This also offers “kid digs” that feature some smaller, child-friendly equipment for children ages 3 and up.
3. Go On An ATV Tour
Add some action to your trip with an ATV tour through the gorgeous landscapes surrounding Las Vegas. Adrenaline ATV Tours offers packages that cover practically everything, from hotel pick up to offering instruction for how to drive ATVs.
4. Kayak Through Emerald Cave
Emerald Cave is a gorgeous natural attraction on the Colorado river that more than lives up to its name. Located about an hour from Las Vegas, booking a kayaking tour of this beautiful cave is an excellent way to spend an afternoon. Tour packages such as the one offered by River Dogz offer round-trip transportation from Las Vegas to the river, making this a great option for adventure even if you don’t have your own car.
5. Tour Antelope Canyon
Here’s another option for a one-of-a-kind tour – exploring Antelope Canyon. This stunning slot canyon is located on the Navajo Reservation, and going on a small group tour is a great way to experience it with ease. This is another great option for those looking for some outdoor adventure without transportation of their own, as some tours offer pick up and drop off from your hotel.
6. Hike To Gold Strike Hot Springs
If you’re looking for a bit of a challenge on your adventure, spend a day hiking out to Gold Strike Hot Springs. The trail out to the springs is definitely more on the difficult side. It’s around 6-miles roundtrip and featuring numerous rocky or steep sections – but the destination is so worth it. You’ll be able to relax in the natural hot springs along the Colorado river that mark the end of the route. If you do head out, make sure to wear shoes with good traction and pack plenty of water – you’ll be especially glad on the way back up out of the canyon.
7. Enjoy A Hot Air Balloon Ride
Enjoy a unique view of the desert surrounding Las Vegas by booking a hot air balloon ride. Groups such as Las Vegas Balloon Rides offers rides over the nearby Pahrump Valley, along with a champagne toast at the end of your flight.
8. Soar Through The Air At Slotzilla
You won’t even have to leave the strip for this adventure! Located on Fremont street, Slotzilla Zipline offers the unique opportunity to soar through the Las Vegas strip. SlotZilla has two zip lines – a lower, 7 story high one that spans 2 blocks in length, and a longer, 5 blocks long one that is a whopping 11-stories high.
9. Drive A Tank At Battlefield Vegas
Battlefield Vegas could be simply described as a shooting range. However, this attraction offers a lot more than just your typical targets. You can also look forward to unique opportunities such as driving an actual former military tank or trying out a flamethrower. The range also offers safety training and instruction where needed. That makes this a great way to make some safe one of a kind memories with no experience necessary.
10. Explore Lake Mead
If you’re looking for a more laid-back adventure near Las Vegas, consider spending a day at Lake Mead. Located about 40 minutes from the Las Vegas strip, this beautiful lake has a little bit of something for everyone. Spend an afternoon fishing, a few hours hiking through the surrounding rock formations, or see more of the lake up close by renting a boat.
