The Springs Preserve rests on a 180-acre plot and provides tourists with a historical view of how Native Americans and early settlers relied on the springs to survive. The three kilometers of winding trails are lined with interpretive displays, and at the end of the trail lies a natural wetland that is home to a plethora of bird, plant and animal species. The best part of this off-the-strip getaway is that it is free of charge and only about 4 kilometers north of downtown.
springs preserve.org
For about $11, you could have one of the best dam tours outside of Vegas, about 30 kilometres east of the city. Theatre displays and generator exhibits will tell the story of how, during the depression, Americans overcame technical difficulties to build what was once the world's largest electric power generating station. But if you aren't keen on history, the panoramic view of Lake Mead and the Colorado River is more than breathtaking.
usbr.gov/lc/hooverdam
The Lake Mead National Recreation Area offers a different kind of vacation that you will not get on the strip. The lake is a haven for boaters, swimmers and sunbathers who need a place to cool off from the sizzling Nevada temperatures. For those wanting an extra long break from the Vegas bustle, there are campsites around the lake for about $10 per night.
nps.gov/lame
Bonnie Springs Old Nevada
A 40-kilometer drive will get you out of the ultra-modern city and into a town where saloons, tumbleweeds and stagecoaches are the norm. Old Nevada is a replica of an 1880's mining town that will make you feel like you have landed in the middle of an old Western flick - complete with a "posse" show that ends with a public hanging. Not for the faint of heart, but an entertaining day-trip nonetheless, for about $20 a car load.
bonniesprings.com
Attention all rock climbers - this 1000-meter summit is sure to test your endurance. But the canyon also offers milder slopes for beginner climbers as well. If climbing isn't your idea of fun, there are also opportunities for scenic hikes, cycle routes and leisurely horseback riding. However you decide to get to the top, the views of this canyon, 24 kilometers outside of the city, are incredible.
redrockcanyonlv.org
Examples of the rock art left by the Ancient Pueblo Peoples can be found throughout Nevada's oldest state park. These petro glyphs date back to approximately 300 B.C. and evoke scenes of hunting, food gathering and religious ceremonies. For those who want to stay for the night, campsites are available for $14 for the night.
parks.nv.gov/vf.htm
You wouldn't consider the deserts of Nevada to be a prime skiing destination, but Mt. Charleston's Las Vegas Ski & Snowboard Park will make you think otherwise. Just 55 kilometers outside of the city, this resort opens mid November and features ski runs as long as a kilometer. There are also half-pipes for seasoned snowboarding junkies. An all-day pass will cost you about $50.
File Photo
skilasvegas.com
Ash Meadows is a true photographer's haven. This 90 square kilometer space serves as a habitat for at least 24 indigenous plants and animals found nowhere else in the world, such as the tiny endangered pupfish. Visitors can observe migrating birds in the fall, or plunge into the crisp Crystal Reservoir in the sweltering summer months. At no cost, the 140 kilometer trek to Ash Meadows is more than worth it.
desertcomplex.fws.gov/ashmeadows
If you are feeling inactive in front of that slot machine, about 16 kilometers north of the strip is Las Vegas Sportspark, where you can brush up your baseball skills or soccer tactics. But that's not all - the park also offers personal training classes, karate and fencing lessons. The park is perfect for a physical family outing and packages are available for birthday parties.
File Photo
lvsportspark.com
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