Driving from LA to Vegas

Before you leave Los Angeles and begin your road trip to Las Vegas, don't miss the opportunity to explore a little of the city. For some of the best views, go to Griffith Observatory in Griffith Park. Not only is the observatory known for awe-inspiring shows about the wonders of space, but it also features incredible views of downtown Los Angeles, Hollywood, and the Pacific Ocean. While you're there, be sure to take some time to explore the displays related to science and space exploration as well.

If you're searching for another place to get a fantastic picture of the iconic Hollywood sign, take a trip to Lake Hollywood Park. Kids will enjoy burning some energy on the playground or running around in the open, grassy fields. Even the four-legged family members can enjoy this pet-friendly park (Enterprise is pet-friendly as well). You'll also find spots for picnics and hiking. The main attraction of the park is the unobstructed view of the Hollywood sign. Even better, since most visitors head to the more touristy vantage points up the road, you'll find the park a quiet and relaxing place to visit.

On the morning of your trip, fuel up with some coffee and breakfast pastries from The Bread Lounge. Hit the road with a Pain Au Chocolate and a Ricotta Cheese Danish to make your taste buds happy and your appetite satisfied for the drive.

After you've enjoyed the thrills of Los Angeles and you're ready to get your road trip started, head north on Interstate 15 for about an hour and 15 minutes and 84 miles to reach Victorville, California. This city is home to the California Route 66 Museum, which is the perfect place to explore as you head out on your travels. This interactive museum looks at the history of Route 66 from its days as an early pioneer wagon trail to its time as one of the most significant roads in the country.

If you like history, you'll also want to take some time to explore the Victor Valley Museum. This museum looks at the culture and natural history of the area, including exhibits featuring Native American artifacts, paleontological and geological specimens, and historical objects that help explain the story of how towns and society in the region developed. The museum also hosts popular events throughout the year, including the Solar Oven Cook-off, Insectival, and Night at the Museum.

Hop back in your car and continue north on Interstate 15 for an hour and 40 minutes and 108 miles to discover Hollow Hills Wilderness Area. This wilderness area often gets overlooked since it's situated across from the Mojave National Preserve. It's a great spot to get out and stretch your legs. The area offers stunning views of rolling mountains and desert vegetation. During your stop, you might also spot some Mojave fringe-toed lizards and desert tortoises.

After you've snapped a few pictures and had your chance to stretch, you're ready to begin the final leg of your road trip. Stay north on Interstate 15 for about an hour and 45 minutes and 96 miles to get to Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area. This 48,438-acre nature preserve is a prime destination for wildlife viewing and hiking trails. It also protects an extensive collection of Native American petroglyphs. Strike out on the various trails across the preserve to see the over 1,700 individual rock art designs. You might also be able to spot desert bighorn sheep, desert cottontail rabbits, and mule deer.

Once you've wrapped up exploring the amazing history of Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area, it's a short 36-minute and 24-mile drive north on Interstate 15 to Las Vegas. When you head to the Las Vegas Strip, you'll never run out of things to see and do. If you want to explore something unusual, you can check out the National Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement, otherwise known as the Mob Museum. The museum looks at the stories and history of organized crime in Las Vegas and around the country, as well as law enforcement's efforts to stop it.To get in some great Las Vegas shopping, go to the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian. Modeled after Venice, Italy, this upscale shopping mall contains over 160 stores that range from high fashion shops to unique boutiques. Shopping isn't the only thing to enjoy here though. You can also stroll along and marvel at the painted ceilings and authentic architecture, go for a gondola ride, and enjoy the street performances of classically trained musicians, singers, and actors.While the entertainment, restaurants, and casinos in Las Vegas are legendary, don't forget the area has plenty of scenic beauty to enjoy. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, just a few miles west of the Las Vegas Strip, is one of the most popular natural areas. Here you'll see incredible red sandstone peaks that tower above the desert floor. You can take the 13-mile one-way scenic drive through the conservation area to see some of the highlights, or opt to set out on the numerous hiking and biking trails throughout the park.When you want to experience the beauty of the desert and the charm of two glamorous cities, grab a rental car, and head out on this exciting road trip between Los Angeles and Las Vegas.