The unprecedented stay-at-home and social distancing guidelines brought by
the pandemic has led us to rediscovering our own homes. Now is the chance to
revel in the sights to see and fall in love with, only here in Southern Nevada!

There is more to our Home than just the famous Las Vegas Strip which
earned this city its moniker, the “Entertainment Capital of the World.”
Unique, natural splendors that make you proud to be a Nevadan!

Rediscover and Revel in the extraordinary sights only found in Southern Nevada!

#5 Seven Magic Mountains in South Las Vegas

If you haven’t seen Ugo Rondinone’s masterpiece, then you have a year left to do so. The Bureau of Land Management issued an extension for the exhibit which opened back in May of 2016, but the said permit is only said to be until the end of 2021.  

The Seven Magic Mountains are 7 bedazzling and befuddling boulders in neon colors stacked to reach 30 feet by Rondinone, an internationally acclaimed Swiss artist. This spectacular large-scale exhibit located in Ivanpah Valley near Interstate 15 and Jean Dry Lake also boasts of adjacency to Sheep Mountain along with the McCullough, Bird Spring, and Goodsprings ranges of mountains. So, there is clearly much more to see! Its strategic location which boasts of an awe-inspiring natural backdrop makes one wonder if it is located in Henderson or Enterprise. But don’t fret, simply put in its official address, South Las Vegas Boulevard, Las Vegas, NV 89054 and prepare to be mesmerized! 

#4 Valley of Fire State Park in Overton, Nevada

This is one of the most magnificent places I have ever seen with red sandstone formations all around! This is the oldest state park in Nevada and was designated as a natural landmark back in 1968. The Aztec Sandstone, its centerpiece was formed from shifting sand dunes over 150 million years ago and it appears to be on fire when reflecting the sun’s glorious rays! 

I would recommend visiting in the late afternoon when it is not too hot, and you can catch the sunset atop some of the beautiful rock formations. Personally, I think it beats Las Vegas as a dreamy spot for proposals and wedding ceremonies. Save the address in your GPS and drive there soon: 29450 Valley of Fire Highway, Overton, Nevada 89040. 

#3 Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area in Summerlin, Las Vegas

I’d say this is the favorite of many Las Vegas nature trippers and hikers because it is nestled conveniently in the Summerlin area, which is 15-20 minutes away from most parts of Las Vegas. Boasting of 56 moderate trails, this lovely place is Nevada’s first National Conservations Area! Even the scenic loop, a 20-minute drive through the different canyons and formations is enough to recharge the spirit! 

Most of the trails are also kid-friendly, making it a popular destination for the whole family! Type in its official address, Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center, 1000 Scenic Loop Drive, Las Vegas NV 89161 and don’t forget your hiking boots and your loved ones! 

#2 Spring Mountains National Recreation Area in Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest

The Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest is the largest national forest in the lower 48 States, with its spectacular 6.3 million lush acres of green. Personally, this was the place where I saw wild rabbits and families of reindeer and a friendly bronco… how dreamy were those moments? 

Only 30 minutes west of downtown Las Vegas, this is also more popularly known as Mount Charleston. For me, it is the perfect destination all year round, because during the spring and summer, you can hike in various trails and also get to witness wild animals grazing happily (just don’t get too close) and in wintertime, it transforms into a wonderland of snow where you can do activities like skiing and tubing. 

Food for thought: The Southern Paiute Tribes consider the Spring Mountains Range as sacred fort they believe that this is the creation site of their people. You can still see evidence of their rich culture as you go deeper into this wondrous realm!  

#1 Riverside Casinos overlooking the Colorado River in Laughlin 

Every summer where the cruel sun ravages us desert-dwellers, this has become my haven! Many would agree with me when I call it little Las Vegas, with its own version of hotels and casinos lining the Colorado River. But what makes it special is how you can cross the river and find yourself in another city, another State, specifically in Bullhead, Arizona! And if you want to be in California, you will find yourself in Needles, CA which is just 7-10 minutes away from this part of Laughlin! 

What I find most interesting about this place was how an American pilot, Don Laughlin merely flew over this part of Nevada, apparently discovering it and then eventually developed it and now he has become its founder who has built this charming, unassuming little town! 

Laugh your heart and soul out and drive to Laughlin right now! Just type in Laughlin, NV in your GPS and fall in love with its riverside casinos’ gorgeous architecture and its beating blue blood, the glorious Colorado River (where you can boat-ride for free or jet ski for a good price on weekdays). 

Now is the time to see some of the best local travel destinations, the perfect
backdrop to your next #OOTD post. The best part is that my Top 5 favorite
spots will not take more than an hour’s drive from most points in Las Vegas!