Travel Tips for a Las Vegas Road Trip
So you like to hit the open road, do you? Well, you're not alone. Never fear, our Las Vegas road trip guide will keep you on the straight and narrow!
Q: I'm coming from Los Angeles. What is the traffic like on a holiday weekend? Is it worse than any other weekend?
A: On any weekend, you'll see traffic. To make your drive to Vegas a little more pleasant, check out our laundry list of tips for L.A. drivers on our L.A. Drive Guide page. Before you go, check out our reservations system for the best deal on your hotel room.
Q: Are there any attractions along the way I shouldn't miss?
A: About halfway to Vegas, you'll hit Barstow -- it's a good place to stop and fill your tank and your stomach, and gas is usually cheaper than the other big stop along the way, Baker. If you need a longer break, Barstow also has an outlet mall. As you cross the border into Nevada at Primm, you'll see Buffalo Bill's. According to our sources, the roller coaster there, Desperado, is one of the tallest in the nation. There's an outlet mall too, and we hear it's one of the better ones -- the Fashion Outlets of Las Vegas.
Q: I've only got a few days. Where do I connect with the "in" crowd?
A: Here are your absolute musts: ghostbar -- it's on the 55th floor of the Palms (be sure to line up early, as this one always fills up fast), Jet, is always a party, and don't miss Cherry. To see pop, hip-hop and rock stars, Pure at Caesars and Tao at The Venetian are both a must.
Q: I'm coming in from Arizona. What do I need to know before I leave?
A: Because of security at the Hoover Dam, traffic backs up quickly there. It's usually at its worst in the midday, so plan your drive accordingly. While you are there, stop and take the tour. Hoover Dam has a great view and a lot of Art Deco style. The visitor's center provides a great history of the dam's construction.
