The Las Vegas Strip is one of the most exciting and fabulous stretches of road in the world, but nearby adventures await beyond its wondrous 4.2 miles, too. Some off-Strip excursions take you just up the street for urban experiences, others out into astounding natural wonderlands. So let’s get going!
1. Police Chase Las Vegas
Prepare for adrenaline-pumping, high-speed action at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway as you buckle up in an authentic police car and chase after a pretend speeding suspect. Or, embrace your inner bad side in the fleeing vehicle. An introductory video featuring Erik Estrada of CHiPs fame will get you revved up for this ultimate ride along. (7000 Speedway Blvd., 866.725.8911)
2. The Rat Pack is Back
It’s 1960 forever when this super-cool retro tribute to Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., and Dean Martin takes to the glamorous Copa Room stage. You’ll sway to swinging classic hits like “Luck be a Lady” and “That’s Amore” all evening. Make it a real ring-a-ding-ding time with the preshow Italian dinner option—Ol’ Blue Eyes, Mister Show Business and Dino would approve, baby! (Tuscany Suites & Casino, 702.947.5981)
3. Red Rock National Conservation Area
Be amazed by nature’s neon while traveling the 13-mile Scenic Loop Drive, which wends and winds past awe-inspiring, multicolored sandstone walls that rise thousands of feet into the sky. Be on the lookout for flora and fauna ranging from gorgeous desert wildflowers to cute wild burros—but admire them all from a distance, please. (Visitor center at 1000 Scenic Loop Drive, 702.515.5350)
4. Outdoor Art
Explore Las Vegas’ vibrant art scene in the scintillating Fremont East Entertainment District. Eye-popping murals adorn the sides of historic buildings, and a one-of-a-kind praying mantis sculpture breathes fire at the hip Downtown Container Park in the evening.
5. Springs Preserve
Wander through the winding, verdant paths at this lovely 180-acre arboretum that’s dedicated to the Mojave Desert. Exhibits include the WaterWorks, which explains how precious H2O gets to your hotel room in this dry environment. (333 S. Valley View Blvd., 702.822.7700)
6. The Retreat on Charleston Peak
Chill out among fragrant pine trees and grassy meadows of nearby Mount Charleston in the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area about an hour’s drive from the Strip. While there, check in at The Retreat on Charleston Peak, which will become your base camp for numerous hiking trails and stunning vistas galore. (2755 Kyle Canyon Road, 702.872.5500)
7. SunBuggy Fun Rentals
Zoom up and down the sides of lofty mountains of sand at Big Dune in the picturesque Amargosa Valley. There, you’ll bust out sweet maneuvers on a souped-up buggy across drifts that can reach 500 feet in height. (6925 Speedway Blvd., 866.728.4443)
8. Adrenaline ATV Tours
Get to know the gorgeous Valley of Fire State Park on a rugged four-wheeler or in a tricked-out RZR. You’ll follow outback paths past weather-sculpted rock spires, hoodoos and canyons that glow in the sunshine with a kaleidoscope of ruddy hues. (4780 W. Ann Road, 702.289.5427)
9. Maverick Helicopters
Soar above impressive Hoover Dam and Lake Mead, then fly on to the majestic Grand Canyon, where you’ll land above the mighty Colorado River. After sipping on sparkling wine (or soft drinks) and nibbling on light snacks, you’ll return to the gleaming Strip. It’s an exhilarating flight. (6075 Las Vegas Blvd. S., 702.261.0007)
