Arizona Cities Near Las Vegas Worth Visiting
Las Vegas attracts over 40 million visitors a year, but did you know some of Arizona’s top destinations are less than a few hours’ drive away? If you’re planning a Vegas trip, extending your itinerary to include nearby Arizona cities makes for an easy and rewarding side excursion.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer on Arizona cities close to Vegas: Some of the top options include Kingman, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu City, Laughlin and Flagstaff. All are within 1-4 hours driving distance.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the best Arizona cities to visit near Las Vegas. We’ll highlight the distance, driving times, top attractions and things to do for each destination. Whether you’re looking for scenic nature, water sports, Old West history or great food and entertainment, these neighboring Arizona cities have you covered.
Kingman, Arizona
Located 1 hour 35 minutes from Vegas
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas for a day trip, Kingman, Arizona is the perfect destination. Located 1 hour 35 minutes away from Vegas, this charming city offers a peaceful respite from the bright lights and non-stop action of the famous Las Vegas Strip.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day exploring the city’s history or an outdoor adventure in the surrounding desert, Kingman has something for everyone.
Home of Historic Route 66
One of the main attractions in Kingman is its rich connection to the iconic Route 66. As the “Heart of Route 66,” Kingman is home to the Historic Route 66 Museum, where visitors can learn about the history and significance of this legendary highway.
Take a walk down memory lane as you explore exhibits showcasing vintage cars, neon signs, and memorabilia from the golden age of American road trips. Don’t forget to snap a photo next to the famous Route 66 sign that marks the beginning of the journey.
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Points of interest like Route 66 Museum
Aside from the Route 66 Museum, Kingman has plenty of other points of interest to explore. Visit the Mohave Museum of History and Arts to learn about the region’s Native American heritage and pioneer history.
Take a stroll through the historic downtown district, filled with charming shops, antique stores, and local eateries. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are numerous hiking trails, scenic drives, and camping spots in the nearby Hualapai Mountains.
Bullhead City, Arizona
Only 1.5 driving hours from Vegas
Bullhead City, Arizona is a hidden gem located just 90 miles south of Las Vegas, making it the perfect day trip or weekend getaway. With a short 1.5-hour drive, visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of Sin City and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Bullhead City.
Located along Colorado River
One of the main attractions of Bullhead City is its stunning location along the Colorado River. The city offers breathtaking views of the river and its surrounding desert landscape. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront, enjoy a picnic with family and friends, or simply relax and soak in the tranquility of the area.
Water recreation at Lake Mohave
Bullhead City is also the gateway to Lake Mohave, a popular destination for water recreation. With its crystal-clear waters and picturesque shoreline, Lake Mohave is a paradise for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water activities.
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Visitors can rent a boat, go jet skiing, or try their hand at paddleboarding. The possibilities for fun on the water are endless!
For more information about Bullhead City and its attractions, visit the official website.
Lake Havasu City, Arizona
Located under 3 hours from Las Vegas, Lake Havasu City in Arizona is a popular destination for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the famous Strip. With its picturesque location on the shores of Lake Havasu, this city offers a perfect combination of natural beauty and recreational activities.
Under 3 hours from Vegas
One of the main advantages of visiting Lake Havasu City is its proximity to Las Vegas. In just a short drive of under 3 hours, visitors can find themselves in a completely different environment, surrounded by stunning desert landscapes and the tranquil waters of Lake Havasu.
Famous for London Bridge
One of the most iconic landmarks in Lake Havasu City is the London Bridge. Yes, you read that right! The city is home to the original London Bridge, which was purchased by the founder of Lake Havasu City, Robert P. McCulloch, in 1968.
The bridge was carefully dismantled in London, transported to Lake Havasu City, and reconstructed piece by piece. Today, it stands as a symbol of the city’s unique history and charm.
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Lake Havasu recreation
For outdoor enthusiasts, Lake Havasu City offers a wide range of recreational activities. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Havasu provide the perfect setting for boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming.
The city is also known for its beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and golf courses, making it a haven for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors.
Additionally, Lake Havasu City hosts various events throughout the year, including the famous Lake Havasu Balloon Festival and the London Bridge Days. These events attract visitors from all over the country, adding to the vibrant and lively atmosphere of the city.
Laughlin, Nevada
Just over 1 hour south of Vegas
If you’re looking for a quick getaway from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas, look no further than Laughlin, Nevada. Located just over 1 hour south of Vegas, Laughlin offers a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere compared to its flashy neighbor.
With its convenient proximity to Vegas, Laughlin is the perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend escape. Whether you’re looking to try your luck at the casinos, enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the Colorado River, or simply soak up the sun by the pool, Laughlin has something for everyone.
Compact casino town on Colorado River
Despite its small size, Laughlin is home to several resort hotels and casinos that offer a wide range of entertainment options. From slot machines and table games to live music and comedy shows, there’s never a dull moment in this compact casino town.
One of the highlights of Laughlin is its stunning location on the banks of the Colorado River. Many of the hotels and casinos offer breathtaking views of the river, and visitors can even take a riverboat cruise or rent a jet ski to explore the waterways.
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Additionally, the town has a beautiful riverwalk that stretches along the river, lined with shops, restaurants, and bars.
Outdoor adventures to nearby Black Mountains
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll be pleased to know that Laughlin is surrounded by the majestic Black Mountains. These rugged mountains offer a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and off-roading.
One popular attraction in the area is Grapevine Canyon, which is known for its ancient petroglyphs and stunning desert scenery. Hikers can explore the canyon and discover the rich history and culture of the region.
For those seeking a more adrenaline-pumping experience, there are also opportunities for rock climbing and zip-lining in the nearby mountains.
Flagstaff, Arizona
Located just a 4-hour drive from Las Vegas, Flagstaff is a hidden gem in Arizona that is definitely worth the extra distance. This charming city offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions that make it a must-visit destination.
Base for exploring Grand Canyon and Sedona
One of the main reasons why Flagstaff is worth visiting is its proximity to two of Arizona’s most iconic attractions – the Grand Canyon and Sedona. As the closest city to the Grand Canyon, Flagstaff serves as an ideal base for exploring this natural wonder.
Visitors can take a scenic drive to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon and marvel at its breathtaking vistas. Additionally, Flagstaff is also a gateway to the stunning red rock formations of Sedona, where visitors can enjoy hiking, jeep tours, and spiritual retreats.
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University town with great dining
Flagstaff is home to Northern Arizona University, which gives the city a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. The university also contributes to Flagstaff’s diverse culinary scene, with a wide range of restaurants offering delicious and unique dining experiences.
From local breweries and trendy cafes to upscale dining establishments, Flagstaff has something to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re craving pizza, sushi, or southwestern cuisine, you’ll find it all in this charming university town.
For more information on Flagstaff, you can visit their official tourism website.
Conclusion
Las Vegas delivers nonstop entertainment, but extending your itinerary to Arizona offers scenic diversity through stunning desert landscapes, lakes and mountains.
The close proximity of destinations like Kingman, Bullhead City, Lake Havasu and others means you can easily add an exciting side trip. Whether you love gaming, nature, sports or culture, you’ll discover these neighboring Arizona cities have something amazing to offer.
