A Las Vegas vacation is just a road trip away. Explore the west with an Omaha to Las Vegas road trip that takes you through national forests, monuments, and historic sites and past one-of-a-kind shops and restaurants. Your Omaha to Las Vegas drive offers many opportunities to explore the small towns and big cities along the way. So, make a plan for an unforgettable road trip that leads you to Las Vegas.
Pack your bags, rally the troops, and fill the tank, because we have all the road trip recommendations to have the best Omaha to Las Vegas drive.
The journey from Omaha to Vegas spans 1,285 miles or 18 driving hours. To make the most of your road trip, consider splitting the drive into two or even three days so you can explore some stops along the way. You’ll drive through Nebraska, Colorado, Utah, and Arizona before making your way to Nevada. Along the way, you’ll pass through White River National Forest near Aspen, Colorado, and Fishlake National Forest near Sevier, Utah.
Weekend traffic in Vegas can be heavy, and the city also has standard rush-hour traffic as people travel to and from work on weekdays. Expect more traffic in larger cities along the route, and allow for longer drive times if you plan on traveling during the holidays or when there are big Las Vegas events. No matter where you’re driving from or which day of the week, the traffic is sure to pick up closer to the city.
Set aside some time at the start of your road trip to explore the Sunken Gardens. Meander through colorful tulips in the spring, vibrant annuals, perennials in the summer, and art installations and living ponds as well.
North Platte, Nebraska, is home to the Golden Spike Tower. This tower features an open-air observation deck with a view of Union Pacific Railroad’s Bailey Yard below, where you can learn about the railroad’s history.
Ash Hollow State Historical Park spans 1,000 acres and is home to a historic schoolhouse. Stretch your legs on the nine miles of hiking trails, or check out the visitor center to learn more about the area’s history.
Visit the Overland Trail Museum in Sterling, Colorado, once an extension of the Oregon Trail. Explore the village, featuring a schoolhouse, church, and blacksmith shop, while you learn about Colorado’s past.
Dine at one of Denver’s most unique establishments. At Beckon, you’ll be seated around a chef’s counter to watch your meal be prepared right before your eyes. Reservations are required, so book before your road trip begins.
Colorado’s White River National Forest in the Rockies offers more than 2 million acres to explore. With 11 ski resorts and eight wilderness areas covering the land, you’ll have plenty to see and do.
Take in unforgettable panoramic views at the Colorado National Monument. This site features stunning landscapes, with monoliths, plateaus, and canyons contributing to the area’s natural beauty.
Fishlake National Forest is home to many trails and picnicking areas, giving you a chance to get some fresh air. Be sure to check out Pando, the world’s largest organism – a cloned tree that spawned from a single seed.
Visit Cedar City, Utah’s historic downtown, where you can explore the district’s historic buildings. Pop into local shops and grab a bite to eat along Main Street. Then, you can relax alongside century-old trees in Main Street Park.
Make your final stop in the Virgin River Canyon Recreation Area to check out the Virgin River Gorge. It features many of the same geologic features as the Grand Canyon. Plus, you can do some wildlife spotting during your visit.
Some say life isn’t only about the destination, it’s about the journey. If you’re planning your next trip to Vegas from Omaha, consider hitting the road and making an adventure out of it. While you’re planning all your Las Vegas road trip pit stops, be sure to book your room at Golden Gate Las Vegas to have a place to call home after your drive. On top of comfortable rooms and suites (or penthouses for added luxury), you’ll be in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas to walk around town and stretch your legs after your Omaha to Las Vegas drive. Drive safely, and see you soon!
