Las Vegas, famously known for its vibrant nightlife, dazzling casinos, and world-class entertainment shows, is a city that offers more than just its iconic strip. Beyond the glitz and glamor of Sin City lies a plethora of breathtaking natural wonders and experiences waiting for you to discover.
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Grand Canyon Tour From Las Vegas
As one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon draws millions of visitors each year who are in awe of its vastness and beauty. Carved by millions of years of geological forces, this colossal chasm stretches for 277 miles, showcasing sheer rock cliffs, colorful layers, and sweeping vistas that truly defy description.
The South Rim
A tour to explore the South Rim is an experience not to be missed. Tucked away in the northwestern corner of Arizona, the South Rim of the Grand Canyon stands as a timeless testament to Mother Nature’s awe-inspiring creations. Renowned for its breathtaking vistas, vibrant colors, and rugged terrain, this portion of the Grand Canyon offers visitors an opportunity to witness nature’s grandeur up close.
The West Rim
The West Rim has unique and thrilling experiences and provides various tours that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the natural wonder of this iconic destination. You have several different West Rim tour options to make your visit to the Grand Canyon truly memorable.
By helicopter
A helicopter tour is hard to beat for an exhilarating, adrenaline-pumping adventure and panoramic experience of the Grand Canyon’s West Rim. Take off from Las Vegas and soar above the rugged terrain, catching breathtaking canyon views from above. Some tours even include landing at the Grand Canyon, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by towering rock formations.
By luxury limo van
If you prefer a more relaxed yet luxurious way to explore the West Rim, consider taking a guided tour in a luxury limo van. Sit back and relax as you journey through the Mojave Desert, stopping at scenic viewpoints for photo opportunities.
By hummer
Opt for a guided tour in a Hummer vehicle for those seeking an adventurous ride through rugged terrains. These off-road excursions will take you closer to nature as you traverse unpaved trails leading through colorful desert landscapes toward various viewpoints overlooking different stretches of the West Rim.
The Skywalk
One of the most iconic attractions at the Grand Canyon’s West Rim is undoubtedly the Skywalk, which is a glass-bottomed bridge extending 70 feet over its edge. This jaw-dropping engineering marvel allows visitors to walk on air above one of nature’s greatest spectacles while gazing down thousands of feet below their feet.
Unique Grand Canyon Tours
Helicopter landing with champagne toast
For an extra special and romantic experience, consider a helicopter tour with a landing within the Grand Canyon. Imagine touching down on the canyon floor surrounded by towering walls of natural beauty, where you can enjoy a champagne toast while soaking in the awe-inspiring surroundings.
Luxury bus tour with skydiving
If you’re looking for an adrenaline-fueled adventure combined with stunning vistas, consider a luxury bus tour that includes skydiving over the Grand Canyon. Begin your journey with a comfortable bus ride from Las Vegas to the West Rim, taking in scenic views. Then take an unforgettable leap from thousands of feet above the ground as you soar through the air and witness unparalleled aerial views of one of nature’s greatest marvels.
Luxury bus tour with IMAX experience
For those who want to learn more about the rich history and geological significance of the Grand Canyon, combining a luxury bus tour with an IMAX experience is ideal. Travel in comfort as knowledgeable guides provide insights into this natural wonder before arriving at the Grand Canyon Visitor’s Center and IMAX theater, designed to enhance your understanding and appreciation for its magnificence through captivating films projected onto massive screens.
Hoover Dam and Lake Mead
Hoover Dam and Lake Mead offer a fascinating blend of engineering marvels and natural beauty. These iconic landmarks provide an opportunity to delve into the rich history of infrastructure development in the United States and appreciate the vast expanse of water nestled amidst desert landscapes.
Whether you’re interested in learning about engineering feats, taking scenic drives along Lake Mead’s shores, or enjoying water-based activities, there are several tours available from Las Vegas that allow you to explore these awe-inspiring destinations, including:
- Helicopter tours: Consider a helicopter tour for a thrilling aerial perspective of the Hoover Dam and Lake Mead. Soar above these iconic landmarks as your pilot provides commentary on their history and significance. Witness the immense scale of the dam from above while taking in panoramic views of Lake Mead’s shimmering waters, rugged cliffs, and surrounding desert landscape.
- Luxury bus tours with photo stop: Experience the awe-inspiring sight of the Hoover Dam up close with a luxury bus tour that includes a stop for photos. Depart from Las Vegas in air-conditioned comfort as knowledgeable guides offer insights into the dam’s construction and its importance to water conservation in the region. Along with educational commentary, you can capture stunning photos of this monumental engineering feat.
- Mississippi-style paddle boat tour: For a leisurely yet unique experience exploring Lake Mead and getting an up-close view of the Hoover Dam, hop aboard a Mississippi-style paddle boat tour. Cruise along calm waters on a charming paddle wheel boat reminiscent of classic riverboats while enjoying informative narration about the area’s natural history, wildlife, and captivating stories related to Lake Mead and Hoover Dam.
Antelope Canyon
From the shafts of light that dance across the smooth walls to the vibrant hues that change with each passing hour, exploring Antelope Canyon is a breathtaking experience like no other. It is renowned for its ethereal beauty and swirling sandstone formations in the heart of the Navajo Nation in Arizona. Carved by centuries of wind and water erosion, this natural wonder has become an iconic destination for photographers, adventurers, and nature enthusiasts alike.
Vermillion Cliffs National Monument
Nestled in the northern part of Arizona, just a few hours away from Las Vegas, lies the spectacular Vermillion Cliffs National Monument. With its stunning cliffs, vibrant colors, and diverse landscapes, this hidden gem offers a captivating escape into nature’s wonderland.
Vermillion Cliffs truly showcase the raw beauty of the American Southwest with towering sandstone formations, vast desert expanses, and even ancient petroglyphs.
Death Valley
Less than a three-hour drive from Las Vegas lies one of North America’s most captivating and extreme landscapes: Death Valley National Park. Known for its arid desert environment, otherworldly rock formations, and record-breaking heat, Death Valley offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking adventure and exploration.
Despite its name, this vast national park is filled with diverse ecosystems, including salt flats, sand dunes, rugged mountains, and intricate canyons.
Day adventures
Embarking on a day tour of Death Valley allows you to explore the park’s incredible sights and features within a limited timeframe. These tours typically include stops at iconic landmarks such as:
- Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America
- Zabriskie Point, which offers panoramic views of the colorful badlands
- Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, where you can experience walking on pristine sands surrounded by towering peaks
Along the way, knowledgeable guides provide insights into the park’s geology, history, and unique ecosystem.
Sunset and stargazing tours:
Witnessing Death Valley’s breathtaking sunsets is an awe-inspiring experience that should not be missed. Opt for a guided tour to capture these magical moments as vibrant hues dance across the vast desert landscape.
After sunset, prepare to be mesmerized by the stunning display of stars above one of the darkest skies in Southern California during stargazing sessions led by expert astronomers who share their knowledge about constellations and celestial phenomena.
Valley Of Fire State Park
Valley of Fire State Park is a hidden gem that showcases the stunning beauty and vibrant colors of the Mojave Desert. Known for its fiery red sandstone formations, ancient petroglyphs, and unique rock formations, this park offers a mesmerizing retreat.
Hiking tours
A guided hiking tour in Valley of Fire State Park allows you to fully immerse yourself in its natural wonders while learning about geology, plants, and wildlife. Experienced guides will lead you through the park’s scenic trails, taking you to iconic spots like Elephant Rock, Rainbow Vista, and the Fire Wave — a stunning sandstone formation with swirling patterns that resemble waves.
Sunset tours
Valley of Fire is known for its magical sunsets when the fiery red rocks transform under golden hues, creating a breathtaking spectacle. As daylight fades away and stars begin to emerge in the darkening sky, capture stunning photographs or simply enjoy peaceful moments amid the quiet beauty of nature at twilight.
Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park
Nestled in the southwestern region of Utah, Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park are two iconic destinations that showcase the breathtaking beauty of nature’s handiwork. Embarking on hiking tours to explore these natural wonders is a must for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Experienced guides will lead you along scenic trails, taking you to the most awe-inspiring viewpoints and hidden gems within each park.
In Bryce Canyon, hike among the famous hoodoos (tall spire-like rock formations that dot the canyon) which create a surreal landscape. In Zion National Park, marvel at towering cliffs, narrow slot canyons, cascading waterfalls, and lush greenery.
Red Rock Canyon
Red Rock Canyon offers a stunning escape into the natural beauty of the Mojave Desert. With its distinctive red rock formations, rugged cliffs, and scenic desert landscapes, this conservation area is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
SUV tours
An SUV tour offers a comfortable and convenient way to explore this desert oasis’s stunning landscapes and rock formations. Sit back and relax as experienced guides navigate the scenic drive, allowing you to soak in panoramic views of towering cliffs, vibrant red rocks, and the surrounding Mojave Desert.
Hiking tours
For those who prefer a more active adventure, guided hiking tours through Red Rock Canyon allow you to immerse yourself in its natural wonders up close. From easy nature walks along accessible trails to more challenging hikes that lead you deeper into the canyons, options are available for all fitness levels and interests.
Las Vegas Strip
When you want to remain near all the action and excitement of Las Vegas, you have different options for Las Vegas Strip tours.
Night tours:
- Open-top bus tour: Hop on an open-top bus and cruise along the Las Vegas Strip at night while enjoying panoramic views of the illuminated resorts, sparkling lights, and famous landmarks
- Helicopter night flight: For a truly unforgettable experience, take a helicopter tour over the dazzling Las Vegas Strip at night. Marvel at the city’s iconic skyline from above as it comes alive with vibrant lights and neon signs.
Walking tours:
- Self-guided walking tour: Lace up your walking shoes and embark on a self-guided walking tour of the Las Vegas Strip. Stroll down this world-famous boulevard at your own pace, taking in all its glitz, glamor, and attractions dotting both sides of the street.
- Guided walking tour: Join a guided walking tour led by knowledgeable local guides who can share insider knowledge about Las Vegas history, architecture highlights, notable landmarks, and fascinating stories behind each casino or resort you encounter during your leisurely walk along the Strip.
Book your tour now!
Discover the best tours to take from Las Vegas with an unforgettable adventure as you explore the wonders that surround this dazzling city. Gray Line Las Vegas has curated a selection of extraordinary tours just for you. Ready your camera for an awe-inspiring journey you will remember for a lifetime.
Book a Grand Canyon helicopter or other tour today
Sources:
Death Valley: Things to Do. (2023).
Morgan, M., and K. (2023). Grand Canyon South Rim: 8 Best Things to Do, One + Two Days Itinerary.
Peglar, T. (2019). Everything to Know about the Grand Canyon Skywalk Glass Bridge.