Las Vegas can be really fun but sometimes the gambling, shows and buffets can get a bit too much. There are only so many hands of poker you can play and how many free buffets you can dine on before you are looking for something else to do, particularly when vacationing with family. Luckily, a number of family day trip options are located nearby Las Vegas.



Perhaps the most popular family day trip destination is the Hoover Dam. Located approximately thirty miles from Las Vegas, the Hoover Dam is one of the largest dams in the world and it is a very important landmark. While you are at Hoover Dam, you can go to the Hoover Dam museum, which is a great place for kids and adults alike to learn about the importance of the dam.

If you are willing to travel a long distance on the road (or take an hour plane ride), consider heading out to the Grand Canyon. While the Grand Canyon is located in Arizona and is 300 miles away, it is possible to drive there and back in one day. The Grand Canyon is one natural wonder that everyone should see at least once in their life.

To get out of the heat that can plague Las Vegas for most of the year, take a day trip to Mt. Charleston. Mt. Charleston is about 40 miles away from Las Vegas but due to the high elevation, it can be more than 30 degrees cooler. During the winter months, there is also great skiing on the mountain. During the summer, you can go hiking or horseback riding in the great weather.

Red Rock Canyon is 15 miles away from Las Vegas and offers breathtaking scenic views of natural beauty. You can go camping or even rock climbing in the canyon. Just be prepared for the heat with plenty of water and sunscreen. For more information when you are at Red Rock Canyon, visit the Red Rock Canyon visitor center for maps and details about guided tours.