The Ultimate Los Angeles to Las Vegas Road Trip Guide

Here are the best road trip stops between Las Vegas and Los Angeles!

A lot of people love doing the road trip from LA to Las Vegas for the roadside attractions and quirky towns. With both cities being major US destinations, this 4-5 hour drive is a great way to see the sights along the way.

We go to Vegas every year, and love combining our time there with a visit to LA. Many of my friends who live in LA have made the drive to Vegas as well, often citing some fun and unique stops along the way. Watching the city fade into the desert, knowing that a neon-lit city awaits at the end, makes for a fun road trip experience! 

Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your Los Angeles to Las Vegas road trip, covering the best routes, must-see stops, and helpful tips to make your road trip fun, safe, and memorable!

Los Angeles to Las Vegas Road Trip Must-Knows

Let’s cover the basics of getting to Vegas from LA first, like how long the road trip takes, when is the best time go, and why this drive is actually worth doing instead of just hopping on a short flight (which, although cheap, takes away from the fun of doing a lot of historic and memorable pit stops): 

How long is the Los Angeles to Las Vegas road trip?

Doing Los Angeles to Las Vegas by road means driving about 281 miles if you’re taking the most direct route (I-15 North). On a good day with zero traffic (which is pretty rare in LA), the drive takes around 5 hours.

But factor in bathroom breaks, snacks, and fun roadside stops you won’t want to miss, and you’re probably looking at more like 6-7 hours total. Some people can drive from LA to Vegas in about 4.5 hours, but that’s with zero traffic and without stopping for anything.

When is the best time to drive from Los Angeles to Las Vegas?

Avoid Friday afternoons at all costs. Many people leave work early and hit the road, which leads to bumper-to-bumper traffic through the Cajon Pass. To avoid this, leave early in the morning or late in the evening, ideally on a weekday, to minimize travel time. Early Sunday mornings are also a good option.

If you’re road-tripping in the summer to Las Vegas, be mindful of extreme heat. Temperatures can soar to over 115°F in places like Baker, so make sure your A/C is in top shape and you have plenty of water.

Why You Should Do an LA to Las Vegas Road Trip

There’s something kind of cinematic about this drive, like you’re starring in your own desert road movie (think that scene from the Barbie movie when she’s hitting the open road with Ken). There’s wide-open sky, dusty little towns that feel frozen in time, and a chance to explore must-see spots like the Mojave Desert and Route 66.

The road trip is made for spontaneous detours and you’ll see more than if you were just flying over to Vegas. Plus, driving can save on accommodation costs, especially if you’re traveling with a family. 

Los Angeles to Las Vegas Route Options

There are a few different routes you can take from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, depending on how much time you have, the kind of scenery you want, and if you’re in the mood to explore ghost towns and historic diners. Here are the top routes:

I-15 North (Most Direct)

The I-15 North is the quickest, most straightforward route to Vegas, and it’s also the most popular. You’ll hit the freeway and drive straight through the desert, passing through towns like Barstow and Primm before reaching the city.

It’s a fast and reliable route, although it can feel a bit repetitive if you’re hoping for some beautiful scenery on your road trip.

You can expect long stretches of desert with little to no shade, so just be prepared for that. Make sure you have plenty of water, you stock up on gas beforehand, and your A/C is in good condition!

• Distance covered: 281 miles
• Length of drive/travel time: 4.5-5 hours

U.S. Route 66 (Historic)

For a more nostalgic road trip, take U.S. Route 66. This historic route offers a taste of old Americana, with small towns, vintage motels, and attractions like the California Route 66 Museum and the Bottle Tree Ranch.

It’s slower than the I-15, but it’s worth it for the vibe and the roadside stops. Expect a more relaxed, scenic journey with plenty of photo opportunities.

Take the section from Victorville to Barstow to check out retro diners, vintage gas stations, antique shops, burger joints, and even an ostrich farm!

• Distance covered: 273 miles
• Length of drive/travel time: 5-6 hours, depending on stops

I-10 East to CA-62 (via the High Desert)

This route takes you through Joshua Tree and the high desert, offering a different kind of road trip experience. Starting with I-10 East, you’ll eventually merge onto CA-62, which takes you through towns like Joshua Tree and the high desert landscapes. 

It’s less direct and adds a bit of extra time, but it’s perfect if you’re looking for a unique, quieter trip. It’s a peaceful drive, with stunning, wide-open spaces. You won’t find many major towns along the way, so make sure your tank’s full and you have plenty of water with you before setting off.

• Distance covered: 367 miles
• Length of drive/travel time: 5.5-6 hours, depending on stops

Scenic Route via the Death Valley (for Adventurers)

This is the most adventurous option, and definitely for those who want a challenge. This route takes you through Death Valley, one of the hottest places on Earth.

Death Valley feels like stepping into another world – it’s remote and can be brutal in the summer heat, but the views and the raw beauty of the place are worth the effort.

You’ll pass through Furnace Creek and the Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, along with stunning salt flats.

Make sure to check road conditions before you go, especially during summer, as extreme heat can make this route dangerous. 

• Distance covered: 410 miles
• Length of drive/travel time: 7-7.5 hours, depending on stops

Through the Mojave National Preserve

If you’re looking for a peaceful detour, consider driving through the Mojave National Preserve. This route offers beautiful desert views, Joshua tree forests, and the stunning Kelso Dunes. It’s quieter and slower than the I-15, with fewer cars on the road, making it a great choice for people who want to enjoy the desert, but at a more leisurely pace.

• Distance covered: 272 miles
• Length of drive/travel time: 4.5-5 hours, depending on stops

Los Angeles to Las Vegas Road Trip: Best Stops Along the Way

The road from Los Angeles to Las Vegas is packed with some seriously cool stops, depending on what you’re in the mood for. You can step back in time with old gas stations and diners, or explore stunning Joshua trees and desert views. Here are some of the best stops to make your journey even more memorable.

Disclaimer: Drive times and distances are estimates based on starting from the corresponding destination to the Las Vegas Strip. Actual times may vary depending on your exact starting point, the route you take, traffic conditions, and the time of day.

1. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

If you haven’t left LA yet or want to explore a bit more of the city before hitting the road, LACMA is a great stop before your road trip to Vegas. The museum is home to some of the best contemporary art collections in the country, with some classical pieces like Picasso originals and ancient artifacts.

The outdoor “Urban Light” installation is especially popular for photos, and a lot of people feel like it’s worth the visit just for that. Even if you’re not an art enthusiast, you can take some fun pictures here. Check nearby parking lots to save on the cost of parking at the museum, which is over $20. 

• Distance from Las Vegas and length of drive (approx): 273-276 mi (4h 25 min – 4 hr 55 min)
• Route(s) to take: Get on CA-110 from W Temple St, Continue on CA-110. Take I-10 W to Electric Dr. Take exit 7B from I-10 W. 

2. Mount San Antonio (Mount Baldy) (San Bernardino County, CA)

Mount Baldy, also known as Mount San Antonio, is not for the faint of heart but offers some incredible hiking experiences on the way to Las Vegas. With a summit over 10,000 feet, this mountain has been the site of more than 100 search and rescue missions since 2020. Known as LA’s most infamous mountain, it’s perfect for those into hiking. 

I recommend starting with some of the easier routes, like The Devil’s Backbone. While still challenging for beginner hikers, this trail offers stunning mountain and valley views. If hiking isn’t your thing but you want to stretch your legs and take in the scenery, this is a great spot to stop.

• Distance from Las Vegas and length of drive (approx): 241 mi (4 hr)
• Route(s) to take: Get on US-101 S, Follow I-10 E, CA-57 N/State Hwy 57 N and CA-210 E/Foothill Fwy to Claremont. Take exit 52 from CA-210 E/Foothill Fwy. Take Mt Baldy Rd to Falls Rd in San Bernardino County

3. Joshua Tree National Park (Joshua Tree, CA)

Joshua Tree National Park is known for its surreal landscapes, iconic Joshua trees (some of which are over 300 years old), and its distinctive rock formations. The park is a great place for a hike or a scenic drive, offering some of the most stunning views in California. 

The area is surrounded by Joshua trees, and there are easy to moderate hikes if you want to see more of the park. It does get very hot in the summer months, but there are plenty of nice walking trails for you to enjoy the views. 

• Distance from Las Vegas and length of drive (approx): 239-254 mi (3 hr 50 min – 4 hr 10 min)
• Route(s) to take: Get on US-101 S, Drive from I-10 E to Riverside County. Take exit 117 from I-10 E, 
• Continue on CA-62 E/29 Palms Hwy. Drive to Park Blvd in San Bernardino County

4. Victoria Gardens Mall (Rancho Cucamonga, CA)

If you’re looking to shop, stretch your legs, or grab a bite to eat, Victoria Gardens Mall is a perfect pit stop. It’s a nice outdoor shopping center with plenty of shops and dining places. It’s like a mini oasis in the middle of the desert, with great places to take a break and recharge. If you just want a clean place to stop, this mall has everything you need.

• Distance from Las Vegas and length of drive (approx): 220 mi (3 hr 25 min)
• Route(s) to take: Get on US-101 S, Take I-10 E and CA-210 E/Foothill Fwy to Day Creek Blvd in Rancho Cucamonga. Take exit 61 from CA-210 E/Foothill Fwy. Continue on Day Creek Blvd. Drive to Church St

5. Mormon Rocks (Cajon Pass, CA)

Mormon Rocks is a unique natural formation right off I-15, and it’s an easy stop if you’re looking for a quick photo op. The rocks are part of the Cajon Pass, and the area has historical significance, dating back to when Mormon settlers passed through this part of California.

It’s a quick stop but very picturesque, with beginner trails with easy inclines, along with some beautiful landscapes to stretch your legs and breathe in some fresh air. 

• Distance from Las Vegas and length of drive (approx): 203 mi (3 hr)
• Route(s) to take: Get on US-101 S, take I-10 E, CA-210 E/Foothill Fwy and I-15 N to CA-138 W in San Bernardino County. Take exit 131 from I-15 N. Follow CA-138 W to your destination

6. California Route 66 Museum (Victorville, CA)

The California Route 66 Museum in Victorville is a great homage to the old road, packed with artifacts, old photos, and displays that celebrate the history of Route 66. It’s a wonderful little stop to learn about the history of the mother road, and takes you back in time. Plus, it’s free to visit, with a great collection of memorabilia in the gift shop.

I highly recommend visiting this shop and museum if you’re driving past it! 

• Distance from Las Vegas and length of drive (approx): 182 mi (2 hr 40 min)
• Route(s) to take: Get on US-101 S, Follow I-10 E, CA-210 E/Foothill Fwy and I-15 N to CA-18/D St in Victorville. Take exit 153A from I-15 N. Use the right 2 lanes to turn right onto CA-18/D St

7. Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch (Oro Grande, CA)

One of the quirkiest stops on the way to Vegas, Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch is a must-see art installation with a lot of antiques and old “junk” like typewriters, tools, and farm equipment turned into art.

There are hundreds of colorful bottles attached to metal trees and it’s a perfect roadside attraction for anyone who likes strange, fun art installations. It’s free, fun, and a great place to stretch your legs.

• Distance from Las Vegas and length of drive (approx): 177 mi (2 hr 40 min)
• Route(s) to take: Get on US-101 S, Follow I-10 E, CA-210 E/Foothill Fwy and I-15 N to CA-18/D St in Victorville. Take exit 153A from I-15 N. Drive to National Trails Hwy

8. Death Valley (Furnace Creek, CA)

Death Valley is one of the most extreme places on Earth, known for being the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the United States. Temperatures can reach over 130°F, and the park is home to ghost towns, historic mining operations, and unique desert landscapes.

If you have the time, stop by Badwater Basin, which is 282 feet below sea level. Note that spring or winter are the best times to visit as summer temperatures can be dangerously high, and it’s not recommended to drive through.

• Distance from Las Vegas and length of drive (approx): 126-153 (2 hr 25 min)
• Route(s) to take: Get on US-101 N from W Temple St, Continue on US-101 N. Take CA-170 N, I-5 N and CA-14 N to E Avenue S. Take exit 33 from CA-14 N. Get on CA-14 N in Rosamond from Sierra Hwy, Follow CA-14 N to Redrock Randsburg Rd in Cantil, Continue on Redrock Randsburg Rd to US-395 N. Turn left onto US-395 N, Follow Trona Rd, Trona Wildrose Rd and Panamint Valley Rd to CA-190 E in Inyo County, Turn right onto CA-190 E (signs for Furnaace Creek 53)

9. Peggy Sue’s 50s Diner (Yermo, CA)

Located near the Calico Mountains, Peggy Sue’s 50s Diner is a nostalgic stop built in 1954. The diner serves classic fare like Elvis chocolate milkshakes, homemade pies, and quirky decorations, including a jeweled cheeseburger and giant milkshake statues.

The food is delicious, and stepping inside feels like you’ve traveled back in time. Well worth the visit, and just off of the interstate! 

• Distance from Las Vegas and length of drive (approx): 143 mi (2 hr 5 min)
• Route(s) to take from LA: US-101 S, I-15 North to Daggett-Yermo RD/Ghost Town Rd in San Bernardino County. Take exit 191 from I-15 N. 

10. Jenny Rose Sign (Yermo, CA)

If you’re driving through Yermo, be sure to stop by the Jenny Rose Sign, a colorful roadside sign that used to read as “Cafe Jenny Rose”. The sign was featured on the back cover of Sheryl Crow’s debut album, Tuesday Night Music Club. It’s a cute and quick photo stop for anyone passing through the area.

It’s a local landmark, and only a few seconds detour from the motorway. It’s a charming piece of pop culture in the desert! 

• Distance from Las Vegas and length of drive (approx): 143 mi (2 hr 5 min)
• Route(s) to take: Get on US-101 S, Follow I-10 E, CA-210 E/Foothill Fwy and I-15 N to Daggett-Yermo Rd/Ghost Town Rd in San Bernardino County. Take exit 191 from I-15 N. Continue on Ghost Town Rd to your destination

11. EddieWorld (Yermo, CA)

EddieWorld is the biggest gas station in California, with 3 fast, casual restaurants serving fresh sandwiches, salads, sushi, and more. It’s essentially a giant truck stop, but with way more like arcade games, ice cream, a candy shop, and even a mini-museum. 

It’s like a little Disneyland for road-trippers! EddieWorld is a fantastic stop if you’re looking for something fun to break up the drive, especially for families with small children. 

• Distance from Las Vegas and length of drive (approx): 140 mi (2 hr)
• Route(s) to take: Get on US-101 S, Follow I-10 E, CA-210 E/Foothill Fwy and I-15 N to Calico Rd in San Bernardino County. Take exit 194 from I-15 N, Continue on Calico Rd to your destination in Yermo

12. Liberty Sculpture Park (Yermo, CA)

Liberty Sculpture Park is a unique, offbeat stop with sculptures visible from I-15 north. This outdoor sculpture park features a range of patriotic and historic art pieces, with an anti-communist theme. It’s a peaceful, unexpected place to stretch your legs and enjoy art, and it’s located right before Eddie’s World.

You’ll need to turn off I-15 onto Calico Road and then take a dirt road to access it. 

• Distance from Las Vegas and length of drive (approx): 141 mi (2 hr)
• Route(s) to take: Get on US-101 S,  Follow I-10 E, CA-210 E/Foothill Fwy and I-15 N to Daggett-Yermo Rd/Ghost Town Rd in San Bernardino County. Take exit 191 from I-15 N. Follow Yermo Rd to your destination 

13. The First Del Taco (Yermo, CA)

For a taste of fast-food history, stop by the First Del Taco, located in Yermo. This spot is considered the birthplace of the iconic Del Taco chain, with an original menu of 19 cent tacos, tostadas, and 24 cent cheeseburgers.

The place is definitely overlooked by everyone who just keeps going down the highway, so be sure to stop by for generous portions and reasonable prices! Make sure you have cash on you! 

There’s also a railroad across the street, which gives you a chance to explore some abandoned trains if you’re into that kind of thing.

• Distance from Las Vegas and length of drive (approx): 139 mi (2 hr)
• Route(s) to take: Get on US-101 S, Follow I-10 E, CA-210 E/Foothill Fwy and I-15 N to Calico Rd in San Bernardino County. Take exit 194 from I-15 N, Drive to Yermo Rd in Yermo

14. Kelso Dunes (Mojave National Preserve, CA)

Kelso Dunes in the Mojave National Preserve is a stunning stop. These giant, golden sand dunes are perfect for a short hike or a scenic drive. The dunes are massive, and you really get a sense of the vastness of the desert here. It’s a great place to stretch your legs, take some photos, and enjoy the quiet beauty of the desert. 

Just keep in mind that it gets HOT in the summertime! If you’re into natural wonders, this is a must-see stop before seeing other parts of the Mojave National Preserve. You feel like you’re in a mini Sahara in the US! 

• Distance from Las Vegas and length of drive (approx): 101 mi (1 hr 45 min)
• Route(s) to take: Get on US-101 S, Take I-10 E, CA-210 E/Foothill Fwy, I-15 N and I-40 E to Kelbaker Rd in San Bernardino County. Take exit 78 from I-40 E. Continue on Kelbaker Rd. Drive to Kelso-Dunes Rd

15. Valley Wells Rest Stop (Baker, CA)

This rest area has plenty of restrooms and parking, and it makes for a great break from a long drive to Vegas. This rest stop is nice because it has some history of the surrounding area and a “Welcome to California” sign! It makes for a nice rest stop and a quick photo-op. 

• Distance from Las Vegas and length of drive (approx): 88 mi (1 hr 20 min)
• Route(s) to take from LA: Get on US-101 S, Follow I-10 E, CA-210 E/Foothill Fwy and I-15 N to Exit 270 in San Bernardino County

16. Mojave National Preserve (San Bernardino County, CA)

About an hour from Las Vegas, the Mojave National Preserve is full of vast deserts and woodlands. The Preserve features numerous trails, sand dunes, coyotes, and even a historic railroad that cuts through the landscape. The towering sand mounds in the area are known to produce unique “singing” sounds.

With miles of empty roads and an abundance of desert flora like Joshua trees, the terrain is truly stunning, making it one of the lesser-known road trips from the Las Vegas Strip. Since it’s remote, be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and gas. The best time to visit is during the winter, as summer temperatures can be extreme. It’s definitely worth a visit!

• Distance from Las Vegas and length of drive (approx): 144-183 mi (2.5-3 hr)
• Route(s) to take:  Get on US-101 S, Follow I-10 E, CA-210 E/Foothill Fwy and I-15 N to Kelbaker Rd in San Bernardino County. Take exit 246 from I-15 N, Turn right onto Kelbaker Rd

17. Lotto Shop (Jean, NV)

This shop is located on the California-Nevada border, and was built specifically for Nevada residents to buy California lottery tickets when the jackpot is large. It’s a small but convenient stop with Wi-Fi and vending machines, making it a good pit stop before continuing into Nevada.

• Distance from Las Vegas and length of drive (approx): 39 mi (40 min)
• Route(s) to take:  Get on US-101 S, ​​Follow I-10 E, CA-210 E/Foothill Fwy and I-15 N to Primm. Take exit 1 from I-15 N, Continue on E Primm Blvd to your destination

18. Pioneer Saloon (Goodsprings, NV)

The Pioneer Saloon is the oldest bar in southern Nevada. It’s a Wild West saloon, established in 1913 and is located just outside Las Vegas in the tiny town of Goodsprings, Nevada.

It’s a cool spot for anyone interested in Western history, and it feels like you’ve stepped into a time machine! There’s a lot of history paced into the place, and the Saloon was featured in many motion pictures.

Grab a drink, soak in the old-school atmosphere, and learn about the history of the saloon. 

• Distance from Las Vegas and length of drive (approx): 34 mi (35 min)
• Route(s) to take: Get on US-101 S, Take I-10 E and I-15 N to your destination in Sloan. Take exit 12 from I-15 N, Drive to NV-161 in Goodsprings

19. Hoover Dam (Boulder City, NV)

The Hoover Dam is an iconic landmark that you simply can’t miss on your way to Las Vegas. Located just outside of Boulder City, Nevada, the dam was built during the Great Depression and is a must-see, a testament to incredible engineering.

You can experience the dam in several ways: walk across the top, visit observation points, or take a guided tour to dive into the dam’s fascinating history and its engineering marvels.

I recommend visiting early in the day when it’s cooler and less crowded. Parking is usually easy to find, but make sure to bring water and a hat, especially in the summer. Prepare for some walking, but it’s a great pit stop before heading into Vegas!

• Distance from Las Vegas and length of drive (approx): 37-44 mi (40-55 min)
• Route(s) to take: Get on US-101 S, Take I-10 E, CA-210 E/Foothill Fwy, I-15 N and I-11 S/US-93 S to NV-172 in Clark County. Take exit 2 from I-11 S/US-93 S, Follow NV-172 to Hoover Dam Access Rd

20. River Mountains Loop Trail (Boulder City, NV)

If you’re into outdoor activities and want to stretch your legs, the River Mountains Loop Trail is a great option. Located near Boulder City, this 35-mile trail loops around the River Mountains, offering breathtaking desert views and glimpses of Lake Mead. The surroundings are peaceful, making it an excellent spot for a morning hike.

It’s moderately challenging but perfect for those looking to get some exercise while taking in beautiful views.

• Distance from Las Vegas and length of drive (approx): 31-39 mi (40-50 min)
• Route(s) to take: Get on US-101 S, Take I-10 E and I-15 N to NV-564 E/W Lake Mead Pkwy in Henderson. Follow W Lake Mead Pkwy to Lakeshore Rd

21. Seven Magic Mountains (near Jean, NV)

Just off I-15, you’ll encounter the striking art installation known as Seven Magic Mountains, created by artist Ugo Rondinone. This installation features towering stacks of neon-colored boulders that stand out dramatically against the desert landscape. It’s close to Las Vegas too!

This is a quick visit with plenty of photo opportunities, making it a must-see for Instagram enthusiasts. It can get crowded, especially on weekends, so plan accordingly. The installation is easy to find, and there’s plenty of parking nearby.

• Distance from Las Vegas and length of drive (approx): 21 mi (25 min)
• Route(s) to take: Get on US-101 S, Follow I-10 E, CA-210 E/Foothill Fwy and I-15 N to NV-161 W in Sloan. Take exit 12 from I-15 N, Follow Las Vegas Blvd S to your destination. 

Car Rentals for Your Los Angeles Las Vegas Road Trip

Renting a car for your Los Angeles to Las Vegas road trip is the easiest option for your quick weekend getaway or longer stay. If you’re like me and don’t want the hassle of flying, the freedom of having your own car is great.

There are tons of rental car companies in LA, and a lot of them offer everything from compact sedans to SUVs, and even convertibles if you’re in the mood for something more Vegas (although driving through the desert in a convertible might not be the best idea). I also recommend this car rental service.

When renting, I always make sure to:

• Book in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer and holidays.
• Check for unlimited mileage, if you plan on taking detours like on Route 66 or to the Mojave National Preserve.
• Make sure the AC works. Seriously, this one is non-negotiable if you’re driving through the desert! 
• Verify roadside assistance coverage – you never know what can happen in the middle of the desert, and it’s better to be safe than sorry! 

➡️ Book your car rental here!

Los Angeles to Vegas Road Trip Tips

Before you hit the road, here are some of the best tips I’ve learned over the years to make your trip as smooth as possible:

• Start early or late: Avoid traffic around LA and the desert heat by leaving at dawn or late afternoon.
• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate: It gets hot out there, so keep water nearby, especially if you’re driving through Death Valley or Mojave.
• Pack snacks: You’ll be passing through stretches with limited food options, so have snacks like jerky, trail mix, or protein bars on hand. You can also grab some cool road trip snacks at EddieWorld!
• Download offline maps: There are huge sections of the drive where cell service disappears. I always download Google Maps for offline use.
• Take your time: It’s easy to rush through this drive, but I recommend pulling over and taking in the quirky stops and enjoying the desert views. It’s the little towns and attractions that make the trip memorable.
• Fuel up often: Gas stations can be few and far between in the desert. Just to be safe, it’s good to top off your tank when you have the chance, especially in places like Baker or Primm.
• Watch out for speed traps: Once you hit Nevada, speed limits can drop suddenly. Watch for speed traps and stay alert! 
• Have your music or podcasts ready: The drive can feel long, so having a good playlist or a podcast to listen to can help make the time fly by 
• Be prepared for the heat: In the summer, temperatures can soar above 100°F, especially in the Mojave Desert. Be ready with sun protection, and check your car’s AC system to make sure it works great before you go.

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

Las Vegas has something for everyone, from luxury escapes to comfy mid-range spots and budget-friendly hotels that still feel fun. Here are some of my favorite picks on the Strip!

• Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas – Located on the south end of the Strip, it’s smoke-free, with spacious rooms, excellent service, and a gorgeous pool and spa to help you unwind after a long day of exploring. Book your stay.
• Mid-Range: W Las Vegas – This hotel is sleek, modern, and full of style, with rooms that have incredible Strip views. The service is top-notch, and the pool is quieter than most on the Strip. Book your stay.
• Budget: Excalibur Hotel & Casino – This hotel has a playful, family-friendly vibe. The castle-themed hotel has clean, comfortable rooms, fun shows like Tournament of Kings, and it’s a short walk from most favorite spots on the Strip. Book your stay.

LA to Vegas Road Trip: Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth driving from LA to Las Vegas?

Absolutely! While flying is quicker, doing a Las Vegas road trip to Los Angeles gives you a chance to experience the desert, small-town Americana, and some really cool, historic stops. It’s a different kind of adventure!

Can you drive Route 66 from LA to Vegas?

Yes, you absolutely can! The old Route 66 is no longer a direct route, but you can still drive along parts of the original “Mother Road”. If you want a taste of the old-school highway, you can take a detour off the I-15 to drive through towns like Victorville, where you’ll find the California Route 66 Museum. 

For the full experience, you can also drive parts of the Route 66 scenic byway through places like Barstow and Yermo, where you’ll see all kinds of old-school Americana things, like Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch and Calico Ghost Town.

Conclusion

The Los Angeles to Las Vegas road trip is one of those journeys that should be on every traveler’s list. It’s a perfect mix of desert landscapes, fun stops you can’t find anywhere else, and a fun-filled journey. 

The drive is just as exciting as the destination, and you can have such a fun time on this road trip! Especially if you’re into beautiful scenery, peaceful hikes, and historic dining spots. Pack up, hit the road, and take your time! It’s all about the journey.

Happy travels!