Interesting Places to Visit in Nevada Other Than Las Vegas

When I was in Las Vegas many years ago, gambling wasn't the only thing on my mind. I wanted to visit other historic sites during my week-long stay. While you can certainly rent a car, it is preferable to take many of the air-conditioned bus tours that are available, especially in the summer months. Here are some interesting places I visited in Nevada and recommend them to you as well.

Hoover Dam by Car: On this particular trip I chose to drive as it was only 30 miles from the strip. You can park at the site, but note that the cost is $11 an hour. Although impressive in size and scope, once you've seen one dam, you've seen them all. Although driving may be an option, one of the best ways to visit major tourist attractions in Las Vegas is to take the bus tours, and Gray Line has the best of them. Hoover Dam and Lake Meade Bus Tour: For a total cost of $92, you will be cruising on the Desert Princess for an hour and a half, and view such beautiful sights as Boulder Island, Arizona Paint Pots, the Colorado River and extinct volcanic rock surrounding the lake. Then you are off to Hoover Dam where you will be given time to explore this site as well as the Power Plant. Lunch is served on board.

The Grand Canyon Bus Tour: One of the Seven Wonders of the World, seeing the Grand Canyon up close and personal is akin to a religious experience. Gray Line hosts a 14 hour tour of the south rim where you will stop at Mather Point and the Bright Angel Lodge to take pictures and videos of this magnificent site. At $135, this is a once-in-a-life-time experience you can't miss.

Zion National Park Bus Tour: This all day tour takes you to the Great White Throne and Temple of Sinawava rock formations. See the world's tallest sandstone walls and many spectacular rock formations including the East Temple and Court of the Patriarchs. Breakfast and lunch are included, and the total cost is $174.99.