When taking a road trip to Vegas, the drive is part of the fun. If your journey starts in Palm Springs, driving to Las Vegas is a great way to experience the beauty of Joshua Tree National Park and the Mojave National Preserve, all while making memories with your friends and family. A Palm Springs to Las Vegas drive is a trip that everyone should experience.
Pack your bags, rally the troops, and fill the tank, because we have all the road trip recommendations to embark on the best Palm springs to Las Vegas drive.
Taking a Palm Springs to Las Vegas road trips is perfectly suited for a day trip, taking just a few hours – unless you decide to take your time at road trip stops along the way. The Palm Springs to Las Vegas distance is approximately 232 miles through California and Nevada via the I-15 N. With ideal traffic and weather conditions, the road trip takes approximately 4 hours to complete.
If possible, avoid starting the Palm Springs to Las Vegas drive on Thursday through Sunday, the most popular driving days. Instead, leave on less-popular driving days such as Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday when traffic tends to be lighter than the hustle and bustle of weekend driving. Allow for longer drive times if you plan on traveling to the city for Las Vegas events or during the holidays. No matter where you’re driving from or which day of the week, the traffic is sure to pick up closer to the city.
Take a walk on one of the many trails and boardwalks through the trees, marsh, and stream habitats while identifying some of the many birds living there. It’s a perfect way to stretch your legs before the road trip to Vegas ahead.
This museum helps visitors learn about the flora, fauna, and historical aspects of the surrounding Yucca Valley. While the space is small, it allows for interactive activities, a mini-zoo, fossils, and six rotating exhibits throughout the year.
With a desert landscape for the majority of your Palm Springs to Las Vegas drive, it’s nice to take in a pop of color. A carefully-curated wine selection (pick up a bottle for your hotel room) and neon pink bathroom are the stars of the store.
Need a bite to fuel yourself through your road trip to Vegas? Stop by Joshua Tree Saloon for some classic burgers, tacos, wings, and other delicious meals all settled in an Old West saloon. They even have breakfast if you get an early start.
Seemingly in the middle of nowhere is a small art exhibit that has drawn a number of art enthusiasts. This little gallery showcases art from around Nevada, and some pieces are definitely unlike any you have seen before.
Since 1905, the Kelso Depot has had a rich history. The station picked up steam in the 20s when it expanded to include the railroad depot, hotel, restaurant, and gardens. Today, it is part of the National Park Service as a Mojave visitor center.
Slightly off of the direct course from Palm Springs to Las Vegas is a town known as Magical Nipton. This small town features a charming trading post, an art gallery, and incredible stargazing if you’re driving through at night.
Inside of Whiskey Pete’s in Primm, you’ll find the getaway car of infamous duo Bonnie and Clyde. Make a quick pit stop to see the car where their 2-year crime spree finally ended, along with other memorabilia from the scene of their deaths.
This unique amusement park right off the Strip is an exciting opportunity to dig in a sandbox… with bulldozers and excavators. You’ll want to book your session in advance to make sure you get some time in. Can you dig it?
If you are a fan of cars, the Shelby Heritage Center, also known as the Carroll Shelby Museum, showcases an impressive collection of cars from Carroll Shelby. Take one of the free guided tours to cap off your Las Vegas road trip.
Some say life isn’t only about the destination, it’s about the journey. If you’re planning your next trip to Las Vegas, consider hitting the road and making an adventure out of it.
