Los Angeles To Las Vegas: Ultimate Road Trip Guide

Pack your dreams and be prepared to go on an exciting road trip from Los Angeles to Las Vegas!

The stretch of road between Los Angeles and Las Vegas usually takes about 4.5 hours if you’re driving nonstop. But if you take your time and explore some of the incredible stops along the way, it can turn into a fun-packed 8 to 9-hour adventure. Sure, some travelers speed through it, assuming it’s nothing but a barren desert—but that couldn’t be further from the truth. With a little curiosity and time on your hands, you’ll discover a surprising number of attractions, from quirky roadside spots to great food and scenic views.

So gather your essentials, fill up your tank, and hit the road—you’re in for a journey that’s just as memorable as the destination. (And maybe pack some stretchy pants—those diner meals don’t mess around.)

You can drive straight to Las Vegas, but to make your travel adventurous, the suggestion is to stop at these fun spots.

Location: Yermo, California

Once you enter Calico Ghost Town Regional Park, you will feel like you've stepped back in time by a few centuries. Once, this was an old, abandoned silver mining town, and it has now been wonderfully restored into a famous attraction. Confused about what to do here? No need to worry! There are many things to do, such as exploring historical museums, visiting an old mine, or riding the Calico train through the hills. There are also food spots and unique shops that make it a great place to stretch your legs and experience a cool diversion between LA and Vegas.

(Just don’t go looking for ghosts—you might find more souvenir shops than spirits.)

Location: Yermo, California

Peggy Sue’s 50’s Diner was founded in 1954. Though there are many food options available—from crispy fries, juicy burgers, to creamy milkshakes—make sure to try their most famous "Jailhouse Rock Tuna Melt" or "Big Bopper Burger," both of which are loved by locals. It’s a fun spot to explore during your trip that features antique decorations, old jukebox music, and checkered floors. There are also sweet options to eat after a bold meal, such as soda floats and delicious pies.

Location: Yermo, California

Though there are many things to do on a Los Angeles to Las Vegas Road trip, to add a quieter touch to your journey, head to the roadside Liberty Sculpture Park, which is located just off I-15. The park features huge sculptures that were made to honor the victims of communism. In the middle, you will see the famous "Tank Man" sculpture and a giant "64". It is completely free to enter and best explored during the day.

(A peaceful stop that gives your brain something to ponder between milkshakes and desert sun.)

Location: Yermo, California

It was known as California’s largest gas station, but it is much more than just a place to fuel your tanks. Here you can find a giant ice cream sundae cup on the road, three fast-casual restaurants that serve delicious sushi, burgers, pizza, and more. If you love snacks, then this spot is a paradise for you. From here, you can grab drinks and snacks for your road trip, such as buttery popcorn, sweet candies, and gourmet jerky (flavored dried meat).

(Basically, it’s a snack lover’s Disneyland—minus the lines.)

• If possible, select weekdays and start your trip in the early morning or late evening to beat the crowd.
• For less expensive rates, book your rooms midweek (Tuesday to Thursday).

(Also, don’t forget your playlist—singing off-key is part of the fun.)

Once you arrive at your destination, there are numerous fun things to do in Las Vegas waiting for you. No matter your preference—food, live music shows, or a magical mountain—there is something for every kind of traveler.

Just a short distance from the south end of the Strip, you’ll observe something unique: "The diamond shape, the glowing letters in a circle." This is an iconic star that lets you know, "You are here." This beautiful glowing star acts as a big hello—or goodbye—to Las Vegas.

(And yes, everyone takes a selfie here. Resistance is futile.)

Are you in search of a beautiful spot along your way to take some Instagram-worthy pictures? Then this is the spot for you. You can find it just a step away from the Strip. Created by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone, this is a mind-blowing wonder of art—a vibrant display that houses tall towers of bright neon boulders.

(It’s like the desert got into finger painting and didn’t stop.)

Area 15 is a renowned hub of entertainment and art, packed with fun activities just off the Strip, and thus near the I-15. Take a pass to make the most of your trip and enjoy maximum fun activities. Once you arrive, you will get lost in an adventurous world with many things to do, such as experiencing the virtual world of Illuminarium, trying axe throwing at Dueling Axes, or visiting the celebrated Meow Wolf Omega Mart. There are also live performances, restaurants, bars, and adventurous gaming. So, make sure not to skip this amazing spot.

(Warning: side effects may include overstimulation, awe, and wanting to live inside Meow Wolf.)

If you want to experience classic Vegas energy, then you must stop here! Fremont Street is situated directly off two major freeways. The main highlight is "The Viva Vision Canopy," which is the world’s largest digital screen that lights up every night with its live music show and sparkling lights. Feeling hungry? Don’t worry! There are also great food options here, such as Salt Grass Steak House at the Golden Nugget or the most famous Project BBQ, which is located near the Golden Gate Hotel. No matter day or night, Fremont Street is a must-see spot.

(It’s loud, it’s bright, and it’s got brisket—what more could you need?)

If you are on a Vegas trip, then exploring the fountains of Bellagio is a must-do thing that you can’t ignore. There is a daily water dancing show with classical to pop music. Once you arrive there, head to the Conservatory and Botanical Gardens (changes with every season), which offer a breathtaking floral display and amazing opportunities for Instagram-worthy pictures. You can also relax and satisfy your hunger at the resort’s restaurants.

(Think of it as a spa for your eyeballs—and maybe your stomach, too.)

This massive, glowing orb near The Venetian isn’t just a giant eyeball watching over the Strip—it’s a full-blown immersive entertainment venue packed with futuristic visuals and jaw-dropping tech. Whether you catch a concert, a film, or just admire it from the outside while wondering if aliens dropped it off, The Sphere is a must-see. Bonus: it makes your Vegas selfies look like a sci-fi movie poster.

Top Hotels to Stay In Las Vegas:

5.7 Fabulous

Bridger Inn Hotel Downtown

301 South Main Street Las Vegas, us

7.4 Good

Plaza Hotel & Casino

1 Main Street Las Vegas, us

6.6 Pleasant

Golden Gate Casino Hotel

1 Fremont Street Las Vegas, us

Final Thoughts

The road trip from Los Angeles to Las Vegas is full of activities, from international dining to live music and shows. So don’t ignore the famous spots along the route that give the same entertaining experience you expect when you arrive at your destination.

So, fuel up your tank, grab some snacks and drinks, and let this amazing road trip from Los Angeles to Las Vegas amaze you at every turn!