The route from LA to Vegas is largely desert. In fact, without a
rather circuitous route, all you will see is largely desert.
But--since I've read that you're from Chicago, you might enjoy the
change in scenery.
Are you a fan of natural attractions? JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK is a
wonderful gem of wildlife: "Closer examination reveals a fascinating
variety of plants and animals. A rich cultural history and surreal
geologic features add to the attraction of this place." More info
here:
http://www.nps.gov/jotr/index.htm
After all that desert, take some time to enjoy your company at LAKE
HAVASU, on the California-Arizona border. Lake Havasu is a favorite
amongst LA residents for weekend trips on Jetskis, which are easily
rentable if you don't have any handy. More info here:
http://www.lakehavasu.com/
My recommendation: spend the night there!
Now comes an optional fork in the road: feel like driving an
additional 350 miles, and an extra night? Then you'll avail yourself
of the chance to see the GRAND CANYON in Arizona. The Grand Canyon
speaks for itself, but you can find more info here:
http://www.nps.gov/grca/index.htm
From either the Grand Canyon or Lake Havasu, visit the man-made wonder
HOOVER DAM. Take US-95 from Lake Havasu or US-93 from Grand Canyon.
http://www.usbr.gov/lc/hooverdam/service/directions.htm
From the Hoover Dam, it's a relatively quick drive to Vegas! You'll
probably arrive at night--but did you really go to Vegas to experience
the hot, dry sun? Take US-93 to I-515.
--On the way back, take I-15 South, here's a quick itinerary:
1) Depart Vegas (sometimes the toughest part :)) in the morning
2) Visit Death Valley National Park.
more info: http://www.nps.gov/deva/index.htm
map: http://maps.yahoo.com/dd_result?ed=xTowJeV.wimQQVd6MsEKU7USFw--&csz=las+vegas%2C+nv&country=us&tcsz=death+valley%2C+ca&tcountry=us
3) Optional: Do you like shopping? Shop at the BARSTOW FACTORY STORES.
Home to a variety of outlet stores and a favorite day trip for LA
residents. Eat at In-N-Out Burger.
list of stores: http://www.factorymerchantsbarstow.com/list-outlets/index.htm
map: http://maps.yahoo.com/dd_result?ed=xTowJeV.wimQQVd6MsEKU7USFw--&csz=death+valley%2C+ca&country=us&tcsz=Barstow%2C+CA&tcountry=us
4) Take I-15 south back to LA, if you've shopped til you've dropped.
If you have extra time, take another day and visit BIG BEAR, CA. It's
up in the majestic hills north of Los Angeles and a beautiful forest,
lake, and camping destination.
more info: http://www.bigbear.com/
5) Drive back to LA!
Hope you enjoy! I'm an Orange County, CA resident who has been to
Vegas one too many times!! |
