Escape the Strip: 20 Epic Things to Do Around Las Vegas (January 2026)
Tired of casinos and crowds? Vegas’ real magic lies in the surrounding deserts, canyons, and parks—perfect for hikers, road-trippers, and nature lovers.
Top Nearby Gems (1-5 Hours Drive)
- Valley of Fire State Park (50 min): Fiery red rocks, petroglyphs, hikes like Fire Wave. $10 entry; camp onsite.
- Red Rock Canyon (30 min): Scenic 13-mile drive + trails amid sandstone peaks. $15 entry.
- Mt. Charleston (45 min): Cooler alpine escape—hikes summer, skiing winter.
- Hoover Dam & Lake Mead (45 min): Iconic engineering + boating/fishing on massive reservoir.
- Seven Magic Mountains (30 min): Colorful stacked boulder art installation.
Further Adventures
- Death Valley NP (2 hrs): Extreme heat, Badwater Basin salt flats, dunes.
- Zion NP (2.5 hrs): Dramatic canyons, Angels Landing hike.
- Bryce Canyon NP (4 hrs): Surreal orange hoodoos amphitheater.
Pro tip: Rent a car—public transport limited. Best Oct-May for milder temps.
Favorite off-Strip spot? Or need itinerary help? Ask! 🚗🌵