Las Vegas with a rental car: more than the Strip

Most people picture Las Vegas as a single four-mile street of casinos. Land with a rental car and the city opens up into one of the best road-trip bases in the American West — desert canyons, a giant reservoir, a historic dam and a mountain that is twenty degrees cooler than the valley floor.

The Strip and downtown. Las Vegas Boulevard is where the famous resorts, shows and restaurants live. Downtown, around Fremont Street, has an older, more local feel. Driving between them is easy, but parking at many resorts now costs money — check fees before you go, or park once and walk.

Red Rock Canyon is about 30 minutes west of the Strip. A one-way, 13-mile scenic drive loops past red sandstone cliffs, overlooks and trailheads. Timed-entry reservations apply during busy seasons, so book ahead.

Hoover Dam and Lake Mead sit about 45 minutes southeast. Walk across the dam, stop at the bridge overlook, and take the lakeshore roads for wide desert views. Bring water — there are long stretches without services.

Valley of Fire State Park, about an hour northeast, is Nevada’s oldest state park and famous for glowing red rock formations. Mount Charleston, about 45 minutes northwest, climbs to cool pine forest and is a popular escape on hot summer days.

When to go. Spring and fall bring the most comfortable weather for driving and hiking. Summer is extremely hot — often well above 100°F — so start outdoor trips early and keep the car’s fuel and water topped up. Winter is mild in the city but Mount Charleston can see snow, so check road conditions.

Which car to rent. A compact or midsize car is perfect for the city and paved scenic drives. Choose an SUV if you have lots of luggage, a bigger group, or plan to visit Mount Charleston in winter. Unpaved roads are usually not allowed under rental agreements, whatever the car.