Unveiling Las Vegas like never before with these 9 hidden gems beyond the Strip. From desert landscapes to secret art galleries, see the best of Vegas off the beaten path.
Las Vegas is famous for its iconic Strip, dazzling casinos, and high-energy nightlife. But if you’re craving an experience beyond the ordinary, the city has plenty to offer far away from the glitz and neon lights. Las Vegas is located in the Mojave Desert in southern Nevada, nestled in a basin surrounded by mountain ranges, approximately 270 miles northeast of Los Angeles and 25 miles east of the California border. Venture off the Strip and discover unique places through our Las Vegas tour package to the attractions, local hideaways, and breathtaking spots few tourists ever see. Here’s your guide to 9 hidden gems in Las Vegas that will leave you utterly breathless.
Distance from the Strip: 50 miles northeast
Why it’s a gem: Valley of Fire is Nevada’s oldest and largest state park. Known for red sandstone formations and ancient petroglyphs, the landscape seems like another planet an apt observation given the excitement of seeing the same flames during sunrise and sunset. This park offers hiking, photography, and historical artifacts dating back thousands of years.
Valley of Fire is the oldest and largest state park in Nevada. It is famous for its colorful red sandstone formations and its thousands-year-old ancient petroglyphs. The landscape looks almost like another planet, special in the mornings and evenings when the rocks seem like they are ablaze. Amazingly, the park offers climbing, photography, and an opportunity to explore ancient artifacts from thousands of years ago.
What To Do:
Address: 770 Las Vegas Blvd. N, Las Vegas, NV
Why It’s a Gem: The Neon Boneyard is considered a treasure because it is the place where Las Vegas’s iconic strip of signs retires. This outdoor museum pays homage to the old neon casino and hotel signs that defined the look of old Las Vegas. Walking through the Boneyard is like walking through history, and the illuminated evening tours are simply spectacular.
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Location: 2 Cactus Garden Dr, Henderson, NV
Why it’s a gem: The reason it is considered a gem lies in its proximity to the Strip; this family-owned chocolate factory offers complimentary self-guided tours. Located adjacent to the factory is a 3-acre Botanical Cactus Garden, which is among the largest in Nevada and features over 300 species of plants. This establishment serves as a tranquil retreat with a delightful twist.
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Location: 10 miles south of Las Vegas off Interstate 15.
Why it’s a gem: The striking art installation by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone consists of seven stacked boulders of colorful hues. The neon-colored rocks reach a height of 30 feet, creating a strong and vibrant contrast to the desert landscape, together creating a visual spectacle one cannot forget and photo opportunities one cannot miss.
What To Do:
Location: Downtown Las Vegas
Why it’s a gem: Art lovers flock to this part of town, called 18b. So many galleries, vintage shops, street art, and eclectic eateries grace the neighborhood. It hosts festivals on the first Friday of every month with live music food trucks and local art vendors, so it’s all dynamic and community-related.
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Distance from the Strip: 40 miles northwest
Why It’s a gem: Because it’s an escape from the summer heat of the desert, cool mountain air, pine trees, and some wonderful scenic trails. In winter, it is a snow-capped wonderland and in summer, it’s a green paradise, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and stargazing.
What to do:
Address: 333 South Valley View Boulevard, Las Vegas, Nevada.
Why it’s a Gem: Springs Preserve is a vast cultural and environmental oasis covering 180 acres. It has interactive exhibits, botanical gardens, hiking trails, and even a museum, making it a fantastic destination for families or people interested in Nevada’s natural history.
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Location: 7050 Wetlands Park Ln, Las Vegas, NV
Why it’s a Gem: Clark County Wetlands Park is a fabulous escape from the distant sounds of the city filled with flora and fauna along with several miles of walking trails for nature lovers and photographers.
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Distance from the Strip: 17 miles west
Why it’s a Gem: Known because of its great red-colored rocks, Red Rock Canyon is an excellent geological science that offers rich recreational activities. The 13-mile scenic drive, along with different hiking trails and climbing sites, allows anyone visiting this place to experience the marvelous natural beauty of Nevada.
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In fact, such attractions as Springs Preserve, Valley of Fire, and Ethel M Chocolate Factory are family-friendly; hence, they could generate interesting activities for visitors of any age.
Fall and spring are good because the temperatures are mild, best for exploring outside. Otherwise, summer can be hot, extremely so in deserts, so mornings or evenings are best.
Certain sites are charging an entrance fee, such as Red Rock Canyon and Valley of Fire. Others, including Seven Magic Mountains and the Arts District, have no charge for entry.
Most of these hidden gems can only be reached with the car. Rent or catch a ride to reach there for easy access.
Uncover the Real Las Vegas Beyond the Glitz with our curated Las Vegas tour package. From breathtaking desert vistas to culturally rich urban areas, there lies an entirely different side of Las Vegas waiting to be explored. Whether a nature lover, an art enthusiast, or an inquisitive traveler, these hidden treasures throw light on the varied and captivating essence that the city holds. Next time you visit Las Vegas, venture off the Strip and discover these places.
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