knuk

We'll be driving from LA to Vegas on Sunday Sept.5th. Wondering if there is anything along the route that is worth a stop or a visit? Mojave Preserve maybe?? Or is there a better scenic route to take other than the most direct route? We're in no big rush to get to Vegas, hotel check in isn't until 4pm and will have a week to enjoy Vegas.

logandog

It is dangerously hot during this time of year in the Mojave desert. Touring ,hiking etc. is difficult.
I think I-15 is scenic, spectacular in places and is by far the most direct.

boom_boom

If you take 15 There is the Calico Ghost Town outside of Barstow and the "World's Tallest Thermometer" in Baker.

divineMissM

If you're really brave you could stop at Rock a Hoola, the ghost-town of a waterpark:

http://www.lasvegasweekly.com/news/2...p-slidin-away/

utahtea

As logandog mentioned, it's going to be HOT but if you want to just drive though a red rock area, you can check out Red Rock Canyon National Conservation area just a little outside of Vegas, other wize boom_boom has hit on the most exciting things on this route. Other routes will take you way out of your way.

If you don't mind going 160 miles out of your way, then at Barstow, CA take I-40 to Needles and then cross into Arizona. Then exit at Topock and take the old Route 66 to Oatman, AZ. http://www.desertusa.com/oatman/du_oatman.html This is a tourist trap, but a fun one. Then continue on the old route 66 to Kingman, AZ. There is a great Route 66 museum in town. Then take Hwy 93 past Lake Mead to Las Vegas. Approx 430 miles and 8 hours driving time.

Utahtea

logandog

In Barstow you could stop at the old train depot/mini-mall right off the freeway.It's a good place to stretch your legs with some interesting snacking choices,good restrooms and a liquor store.
The last gyro I had at The Mad Greeks in Baker,was very good.They have an extensive greek takeout menu and Baker is an easy place to buy gas and get on and off I-15.

knuk

Thanks everyone for the suggestions - i'll have to look into the suggested Oatman detour. Not sure if we want to spent that much time en route, but it sounds like fun. I'll check with hubby. If we hit Mojave, it will definitely be for a drive thru visit from the Air Conditioned car!!