Friday, July 8, 2016

Beyond the Las Vegas Strip

The strip in Las Vegas is an amazing place to visit. You could spend an entire trip just sticking to exploring the strip's hotels, casinos, and attractions, but there is so, so much more to Vegas {and the surrounding areas} than the strip. Some of my favorites are close to, on far ends, or miles away from all the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas Boulevard. I'm excited to share so many of my favorites with you.


Carroll Shelby Heritage Center: Visit a show room of Carroll Shelby's finest Mustangs, GT 500s, and more. There's a store, views of the huge shop where cars are spiffed up before your very eyes. Cost is free.
Count's Kustoms: You may have seen the TV show Counting Cars, this is the shop. The owner, Danny, has opened up the shop for visitors. There is a show room full of projects featured on the show, a store full of Count's gear, and you just may spot a member of the crew made famous from the show. We saw Roli during our visit working nearby. Another free attraction.
National Atomic Testing Museum: This spot is just off the strip, a couple of blocks behind The Flamingo. It's a great museum with an abundance of information and exhibits from the Atomic Bomb era. You'll also find a whole exhibition on Area 51, but put your cameras away for this portion. No photos allow in Area 51, which makes this part of the museum that much more mysterious!
Neon Museum: Though technically still on Las Vegas Boulevard albeit far, far on the end, this museum is home to vintage, some restored, neon signs. We enjoyed a day and night tour. The night tour was great because the restored signs were lit up to their former glory. The day tour was amazing as you could see the true detail in all of the signs. If you are going to pick one or the other, I recommend the day tour over the night. It's a little pricey and not as large as I envisioned, but it's well worth the visit
Las Vegas Harley Davidson: On South Las Vegas Boulevard by the airport, there is now a huge new Harley Davidson Shop and show room. Harley shops are always on my trips itinerary for a new t-shirt to add to my collection. The trip here was more than just a quick stop for a shirt. It's more like a whole experience. There's a huge store, an even bigger show room area, and amazing photo ops. Since it is a store, it is free to visit.
Boulder City, Nevada: This quaint little town, home of the Hoover Dam, features sweet little boutiques, antique stores, and the most darling ice cream shop you've ever seen. Boulder City is booming with history, and you may catch a glimpse of Big Horn Sheep.
The Hoover Dam: Take in this Art Deco era mecca, and learn how it was made and works with the full tour. We were blown away at it's sheer size and amazing views. While you're there take a walk up and across the Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge. Don't forget to talk a walk across the dam itself as well. There's a great photo op where you can stand in two places at once!
Lake Mead National Recreation Area: Take a long drive around the largest reservoir in the United States, and enjoy views of some beautiful nature. You'll enjoy lake views, of course, desert views, and even mountain views. If you're as lucky as we were, you'll catch a view of a snow capped mountain! You can also take a fun river boat ride in this man made marvel.
Grand Canyon: About a two and half-three hour drive from Las Vegas, or a short helicopter ride from Boulder City, the Grand Canyon is an amazing place to see if you want to get away from the bright lights during your stay in Vegas. Find yourself on the South Rim at the Skywalk at Eagle Point, and take a walk across a glass bridge shelf over the canyon. The Grand Canyon is a must see for everyone!
Valley of Fire: Northeast of Vegas is a beautiful state park named the Valley of Fire. It's name fits it perfectly! The colors of rock formation here are stunning. Find Indian petroglyphs, white sands, and abundant wildlife. The drive through the park is nothing short of beautiful. Be sure to stop here and there for a few hikes. Don't forget to bring snacks and lots of water.
Red Rock Canyon: Southwest of Vegas is Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. Nature is abundant here, with geological marvels, hiking, and even signs that dinosaurs once roamed the area.

If you are interested in more ideas for things to do in Las Vegas you can contact me here to book your own vacation in Sin City! 

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