Although there is a multitude of things to see and do in Las Vegas, some people enjoy taking a break from the glitz and glamour of Vegas to visit some of the surrounding areas. In just a short drive from Las Vegas travelers can cruise down a river, see some spectacular natural scenery and visit an old western town.
Visiting Laughlin, Nevada
About 95 miles outside of Las Vegas is the peaceful town of Laughlin, Nevada. Located on the Colorado River, Laughlin is home to several casinos. Visitors can enjoy gambling, buffets and entertainment, all at a relaxing, slower pace.
In addition, there are plenty of water activities to choose from including jet skiing, water skiing and boating. Travelors can also take a scenic cruise along the Colorado River. Don't forget to take advantage of the free train ride offered by the Tropicana Express Hotel Sat.-Wed., from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Visiting Hoover Dam From Las Vegas
Known as one of America's Seven Modern Civil Engineering Wonders, Hoover Dam is located about 30 miles southeast of Vegas on Highway 93. A self-guided 45 minute tour of the Visitor Center is available for $8.00 per person with children 3 and under for free.
The Power Plant Tour takes guests 530 feet underground for a 30 minute guided tour with a panoramic view where visitors can see eight of the dam's 17 generators. The Power Plant Tour is $11:00 for ages 17-61, $9:00 for seniors and kids 4-16. Children 3 and under are free.
The Dam Tour offers a guided tour of lesser known areas of the dam including tunnels, generators, and inspection points. The tour is $30.00 per person and guests must be over 8 years of age. The Visitor Center is included in both the Power Plant and the Dam Tour.
Bonnie Springs Ranch Old Nevada
Step back in time to the days of the Old West in a replica of an 1880's mining town. Bonnie Springs Ranch is just a 25 mile drive from Las Vegas. Cheer and boo at the melodrama or visit the wax museum. Cowboys and cowgirls roamed the streets, but, be careful, one never knows when a gunfight will take place!
Kids will love the petting zoo and families can enjoy homemade meals. On weekends and holidays visitors can have fun on the miniature train ride. Admission is $20.00 per car load for up to six people. Horseback riding is available at the Red Rock Riding Stables at $55.00 per hour.
Bonnie Springs Ranch is open Wednesday-Sunday at 10:30 a.m. and closes at 6:00 p.m. during the summer and 5:00 p.m. during the winter. Be sure to enjoy the scenary along the way as Red Rock Canyon is spectacular.
Visiting Lake Mead
Located by Hoover Dam is the beautiful Lake Mead. Here, visitors can go fishing, kayaking, boating, and water skiing. In addition there are great trails for hiking and bike riding. The National Park Service even offers guided hikes during the fall and winter.
For some real relaxation consider taking a cruise around the lake. Lake Mead Cruises offers year round sightseeing cruises for $24.00 per adult and $12 per child. Brunch and dinner cruises are available from April 1 to October 31. Entrance to Lake Mead is $5:00 per vehicle.
Grand Canyon Tours From Las Vegas
To visit one of the most awe inspiring attractions in the West, consider taking a day trip to the Grand Canyon. Several tour companies in Las Vegas offer one-day tours. Bus tours usually start at $79:00 per person and include hotel pickup, a tour of the canyon, and complimentary lunch.
Airplane and helicopter tours are also available. In addition, there are combination tours such as an air and ATV tour, an air and cowboy ranch adventure and an air and riverboat cruise. As some tours fill up quickly, it's best to make reservations in advance.
Las Vegas offers excitement and entertaining things to do throughout the year. Whether staying in Vegas or enjoying one of the many day trips available, there's always something to keep everyone happy when traveling to the Las Vegas area.
Readers may also enjoy Fun Things To Do In Las Vegas With Kids, along with Unique Attractions In Las Vegas and Free Things To Do In Las Vegas
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