If you’re looking to explore Nevada’s natural beauty beyond the Strip, there are a few day-trip options that can take you outside of the city. Wander with us, and make memories at national parks and other tranquil spaces during these day trips from Vegas, which might include:

Hilton hint

"Take at least one day and get away from the traditional Vegas strip area. From Old Vegas to hiking or even a day trip to see Hoover Dam - there are lots of options to add some variety to the visit." -Jenn Sully, Hilton Team Member, Global Brand Marketing

From Vegas, head to the Grand Canyon West Visitors' Center. Experience the Skywalk glass bridge, which allows you to float 4,000 feet above and 70 feet over the canyon.

If you’re wary of heights, fear not. There are many other hiking trails to explore. Seek out zip-lining, boat rides or tour a Native American village.

The best photo ops are from the nearby Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, completed in 2010 and spanning the gorge. You can drive over the bridge but there are dedicated parking lots and viewing decks.

Head to the Springdale Visitors’ Center:

Las Vegas to Death Valley National Park (driving distance: 2 hours)

Set your alarm for an early start and aim to be at the park by 9:00 am. It’s well worth it. Once inside, the winding roads open up to some outstanding views, and within 30 minutes you’ll be wide-eyed looking out over the incredible colors and rock formations from Dante’s View. Movie buffs might find Dante’s View an unusually familiar backdrop.

Beyond this, Twenty Mule Team Canyon has short hiking trails through yellow and white hills, and you should arrive at Badwater Basin–the lowest point in the country–to walk across its famous salt flats. There are a couple of rest stops and small stores, but take supplies and picnic surrounded by awe-inspiring nature.

The park itself is home to a 13-mile scenic drive, but the real fun starts when you’re out of the car and can walk among the rocks themselves. Everyone from hardcore climbing enthusiasts to the most casual of hikers can frolic among the striking red and orange outcrops. Amble along the Calico Hills and make sure to see the art carved into the stone at the Petroglyph Wall Trail.

The lake itself stands out, the glinting blue waters contrasting against the rocky desert backdrop, and you can circumvent the waters via the Lake Mead Bike Trail or the Historic Railroad & River Mountains Loop Trails.

You can rent boats or kayaks or take it easy with a cruise on the Desert Princess paddlewheel steamboat. These waters provide a convenient and revitalizing day away from the city.

Paul Oswell is a British award-winning journalist and published travel author based in New Orleans, Louisiana in the United States. His books include Bucket List North America and The Great American Road Trip, as well as New Orleans' Historic Hotels. He has also been an editor of and contributor to several guide books/editions published by Dorling Kindersley (owned by Penguin), including New Orleans, Florida, Orlando, Los Angeles, California and The United States. His work has appeared in Conde Nast Traveler, Travel & Leisure (both of which he has written multiple online travel guides for) and The Guardian, as well as dozens of international newspaper and magazine titles, and inflight magazines for major airlines.