Things to do in Las Vegas

Las Vegas Parks

Explore the natural beauty and wonder with this guide to the best local, national, and state parks in Las Vegas. Learn about all kinds of new parks to explore and find new experiences complete with majestic scenery and diverse wildlife. 

When the excitement of Las Vegas gets too much, there are many parks in Las Vegas and only a short drive away. This is your guide to exploring the best local, national, and state parks in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Want more? Why not check out our blog post on the best things to do in Las Vegas?

City Parks in Las Vegas

Sunset Park

Sunset Park happens to be one of the largest Las Vegas green areas, with acres of gorgeous landscape and scenic paths to take in. You can get active on one of the softball fields and basketball courts or take the kids to the splash pad to cool off on scorching summer days!

  • Location: 2601 E Sunset Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89120
  • Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM
  • Best Time to Visit: Fall, winter, and spring bring the best weather.
  • Things to Do: Playground, basketball courts, tennis courts, splash pad, fishing pond, open grassy areas, and shaded picnic spots.
  • Cost: Free
  • Pets: Yes, dogs are welcome, and the park features a designated off-leash dog area.

Floyd Lamb Park

Floyd Lamb Park is a historic ranch offering a glimpse into early Las Vegas life. Explore horseback riding trails and serene fishing ponds for a natural escape. Many go to enjoy a family picnic with BBQ grills, against breathtaking views. The best part? This is all just minutes from the Strip.

  • Location: 9200 Tule Springs Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89131
  • Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (shorter hours in winter)
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are cooler, greener, and have more wildlife.
  • Things to Do: Walk, explore nature, and spot wildlife.
  • Cost: $6 per car (may change); some free days.
  • Pets: Yes

Desert Breeze Park

Desert Breeze Park is a suitable place to bring your dog, the family, or to have a picnic with friends while enjoying a scenic Las Vegas sunset. You can even perfect your shredding techniques in the intermediate to advanced-level skate park or play sports like basketball and soccer.

There’s also roller hockey rinks and a public swimming pool in the aquatic center to help you stay cool when temperatures rise!

  • Location: 8275 W Spring Mountain Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89147
  • Hours: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM daily
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are cooler. In summer, go early or late.
  • Things to Do: Trails, playground, picnic spots with grills, sports fields, courts, skate park, dog park, community center.
  • Cost: Free (some rentals may cost money).
  • Pets: Yes, with an off-leash dog park.

Centennial Hills Park

Centennial Hills Park is home to an outdoor amphitheater with events like concerts, theatre productions, movie nights, fitness classes, and more. There are also picnic areas, a playground, and splash pads that make this park a great spot for small events with friends and family.

  • Location: 7101 N Buffalo Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89131
  • Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM daily
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall have the nicest weather.
  • Things to Do: Playgrounds, splash pads, walking paths, picnic spots, dog park, sports courts, soccer fields, amphitheater, open lawns.
  • Cost: Free; some events may charge.
  • Pets: Yes, with a fenced dog park for small and large dogs.

Clark County Wetlands Park

Clark County Wetlands Park is a beautiful nature preserve with multiple species of birds and other wildlife. You can navigate the terrain on one of the trailheads or learn more about the flora and fauna in the outdoor classroom.

Want more Las Vegas activities that are on the cheaper side? Check out our blog post on free activities in Las Vegas!

  • Location: 7050 Wetlands Park Lane, Las Vegas, NV 89122
  • Hours :
    Trails: Daily, dawn to dusk
    Nature Center: Tuesday–Sunday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are best; in summer, go early or late.
  • Things to Do: Trails, birdwatching, wildlife, Nature Center, picnics, photos, events.
  • Cost: Free
  • Pets: Yes, dogs on leash allowed on trails.

Exploration Peak Park

Ready for a break? Why not take in stunning Las Vegas Valley views from the summit of Exploration Peak. Explore this 80-acre developed Las Vegas park by walking or biking its trails to the summit. Alternatively, step back in time and discover the Old West town nestled within the park's limits for a unique historical experience.

  • Location: 9275 S Buffalo Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89178
  • Hours : Daily, 5:00 AM – 9:30 PM
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are best; in summer, go early or late.
  • Things to Do: Playground, splash pad, picnics, horseshoe pits, amphitheater, trails, hike up Exploration Peak.
  • Cost: Free
  • Pets: Yes

State & National Parks Near Las Vegas

Why not go the distance and visit one of Nevada’s glorious state parks? We’ve got you covered for options.

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is located just a 25-minute drive from the Strip. Once you arrive, you can enjoy the Mojave Desert landscape on bikes or on foot. The hiking trails vary in difficulty, so there’s something for everyone. Seasoned boulderers can head to the cliffs for prime rock climbing!

If you’d prefer to stay near an air-conditioner, you can stay in your car and drive the Scenic Loop! Whatever you do, you’ll be hungry after. Check out this blog post for some popular Las Vegas brunch spots.

  • Location: 1000 Scenic Loop Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89161
  • Hours:
    Visitor Center: Daily, 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
    Scenic Drive: Varies by season (usually 6:00 AM – sunset)
  • Best Time to Visit: Fall to spring is best; in summer, go early to avoid heat.
  • Things to Do: Scenic drive, hiking, rock climbing, picnics, visitor center, wildlife, photos.
  • Cost: $20 per car (may change); passes and discounts available.
  • Pets: Yes, on-leash only.
Photographer: Ian Mackey

Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument

Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument was once a thriving wetland that supported a wide range of Ice Age animals. Over time, shifting climates and muddy conditions helped preserve the remains of creatures like the saber-toothed cat, and more!

The area also gets extra attention for its seasonal displays of the rare and locally unique Las Vegas Bear Paw poppy; a unique wildflower found in few other places.

  • Location: North of Las Vegas off U.S. Highway 95, near Tule Springs and Floyd Lamb Park
  • Hours: Open during daylight; closed after dark
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall are best; in summer, go early to avoid heat.
  • Things to Do: Hiking, fossil viewing, photography, learning opportunities.
  • Cost: Free
  • Pets: Yes, on-leash only; owners must clean up.

Mount Charleston

Mount Charleston is nestled within the Spring Mountains National Recreation Area. this serene mountain retreat has something fun for everyone: horseback riding for equestrians, camping for outdoorsy types, and plenty of mountain terrain for the climbing fanatics.

The area also gets extra attention for its seasonal displays of the rare and locally unique Las Vegas Bear Paw poppy; a unique wildflower found in few other places.

  • Location: Access via Kyle Canyon Rd (NV-157) and Lee Canyon Rd (NV-156)
  • Hours: Open year-round; some areas may close seasonally due to snow.
  • Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall for hiking and camping; winter for snow activities.
  • Things to Do: Hiking, scenic drives, picnics, camping, skiing, snow play, wildlife, visitor centers.
  • Cost: Most areas are free; some spots may have small fees.
  • Pets: Yes, on-leash only.

Bonus Parks in Las Vegas

A special shoutout to these spots that are great for those seeking unique experiences or who have niche interests!

  • Springs Preserve: Eco-focused with special museums.
  • Old West Town at Exploration Peak: Pioneer history and education.
  • Desert Breeze Skate Park: For the serious skateboarders.
  • Cowabunga Water Park: A full water park experience!

Enjoying The Outdoors in Las Vegas

Even after exploring the great outdoor attractions in Las Vegas, you might still need a little more wonder (and some A/C!). Why not use the opportunity to take in one of our shows in Las Vegas?

Our shows combine compelling stories with stunning acrobatics that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

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